Doctors and pharmacists in Canberra are speaking out against recent claims made by US President Donald Trump regarding the safety of paracetamol during pregnancy. Trump’s remarks, delivered during a press conference on March 15, 2024, suggested that the use of Tylenol, a common brand of paracetamol, could increase the risk of autism in children. Health professionals are urging the public to rely on credible medical advice and dismiss these unverified assertions.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of Australia, along with the nation’s chief medical officer, has firmly refuted Trump’s statements. They emphasized that extensive scientific research indicates no causal relationship between paracetamol use in pregnancy and autism or ADHD. In a statement, the TGA highlighted that numerous large-scale studies contradict these claims.
Health Experts Emphasize Safety of Paracetamol
Canberra GP and Australian Medical Association ACT President Dr. Kerrie Aust expressed frustration over the misinformation, noting that while some studies have explored associations between pregnancy factors and autism, no direct causation has been established. “Generally, messaging from the TGA and other medical organizations in Australia has reassured the public that paracetamol is safe to use during pregnancy,” Dr. Aust said.
Dr. Aust advised that individuals with concerns about fever during pregnancy should consult their GP or obstetrician to determine the underlying cause. “The most important thing is that if you have a fever during pregnancy, you should be evaluated by your GP, obstetrician, or midwife,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of proper medical guidance.
Pharmacist and president of the ACT Pharmacy Guild, Simon Blacker, noted a positive trend in the Canberra region, where there have not been many inquiries related to Trump’s statements. He acknowledged that some people might feel anxious or confused and reiterated the need for professional advice. “When non-medical experts make claims contrary to our public health practices, it can be frustrating. You want people to be protected,” Blacker remarked.
Government Reassurances on Medication Use
Australia’s Health Minister Mark Butler reinforced the message that paracetamol is a widely used medication in Australia and should not be avoided based on unverified claims. He stressed the significance of paracetamol as a treatment for fever, which can pose risks if left untreated during pregnancy. “Paracetamol is not just a pain-relieving medication; it plays an important role in managing fever that can lead to complications,” Butler said.
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists also strongly dismissed Trump’s claims, affirming that paracetamol has a critical role in reducing complications during pregnancy. A spokesperson for the organization advised women who have been prescribed low-dose aspirin during pregnancy to continue its use as directed by their healthcare providers.
With the health community united in its response, Canberra’s medical professionals are encouraging anyone with questions about medication use during pregnancy to seek guidance from qualified healthcare providers. The collective message aims to ensure public confidence in established medical practices and to combat the spread of misinformation.
