On Monday, September 22, President Trump and his administration said the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would be updating drug labels to prevent the use of acetaminophen by pregnant women, and suggested a link between the common painkiller and autism. President Trump placed the blame for rising autism rates onto acetaminophen, also known as, Tylenol.
MDAFP President Dr. Amar Duggirala, DO, MPH, FAAFP, wants to reassure Maryland Physicians and the Family Medicine community that acetaminophen is safe for pregnant women to use in his statement below:
"There is no scientific proof that acetaminophen causes autism in children when taken during pregnancy. While some limited studies have shown a possible association, larger and more rigorous research has found no causal link. Acetaminophen remains THE SAFEST medication available for managing pain and fever during pregnancy.
I am deeply concerned that misleading claims could cause expectant mothers to avoid acetaminophen and instead turn to medications that may carry greater risks to both maternal and fetal health. This unproven and false causal connection not only spreads confusion but also does a disservice to pregnant individuals trying to make informed decisions, and to families affected by autism.
The American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Psychiatric Association, and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine all agree that there is no evidence of a causal relationship between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and autism.
If you are pregnant and have concerns about pain relief, I encourage you to talk with your Family Physician or Obstetrician to make the best choices for your health and your baby’s well-being."
The AAFP has also been fighting back against claims of autism being caused by vaccines. Read their full statement here.
