A major scientific review has definitively debunked former US President Donald Trump's controversial claim that taking paracetamol during pregnancy causes autism in children. The research, published in the prestigious Lancet medical journal, analysed data from over one million children and found no causal link.
The Claim and The 'Gold Standard' Response
In September 2025, Donald Trump shocked global health experts by announcing he had "found the answer to autism," pointing to paracetamol use in pregnancy. Alongside his Health Secretary, noted anti-vaccine activist Robert F Kennedy Jr, he cited data suggesting a slight correlation. This led to advice in some US circles against prescribing the painkiller, known as Tylenol there, to expectant mothers.
However, scientists have long argued that any observed link was likely due to other factors. The new review, led by experts from City, St George’s, University of London, provides what is being called "gold standard" evidence. The team analysed 43 high-quality studies, crucially including sibling comparisons where the same mother took paracetamol in one pregnancy but not another.
What The Million-Child Study Actually Found
The comprehensive analysis concluded that paracetamol does not increase the risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability in offspring. Study lead Professor Asma Khalil stated the findings suggest previously reported associations were explained by genetic predisposition or other maternal factors like underlying pain or fever.
"The message is clear," Professor Khalil said. "Paracetamol remains a safe option during pregnancy when taken as guided." Psychologist Dr Steven Kapp from the University of Portsmouth added that parents of disabled children might be more likely to use pain relief due to stress or chronic conditions, which could create a misleading statistical link.
Reassurance from Experts and Officials
The findings have been welcomed by health leaders and advocacy groups. UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the review "can yet again, reassure mothers-to-be everywhere that there is no evidence whatsoever" linking the painkiller to autism or related conditions. He reaffirmed NHS guidance that paracetamol is safe for use in pregnancy for pain or fever.
Mel Merritt, head of policy at the National Autistic Society, noted the research adds to a vast body of evidence exonerating paracetamol. "Sadly, this research won’t get a fraction of the attention that false claims do," Merritt said. "But the truth matters." Experts emphasise autism is not a disease but a neurological difference with complex, multifactorial origins involving genetics and environment.
The landmark review, published on 16 January 2026, offers robust counter-narrative to misinformation and aims to provide clear, evidence-based guidance for healthcare professionals and the public alike.
