Trump’s Paracetamol-Autism Claims Spark Global Health Backlash

UPDATE: Former U.S. President Donald Trump has ignited a fierce global backlash after claiming a potential link between the use of paracetamol during pregnancy and the development of autism. Health experts and organizations worldwide are condemning Trump’s remarks as “unbelievable BS,” with many warning that they could undermine public health efforts.

In a controversial statement made on July 15, 2025, Trump suggested that pregnant women should avoid Tylenol (paracetamol) unless absolutely necessary. “Effective immediately the FDA will be notifying physicians against the use of acetaminophen,” he stated, asserting that the drug could be associated with an increase in autism cases. This assertion is made without any supporting evidence, raising alarm among medical professionals.

During a segment on Newstalk’s breakfast show, former GP Ciara Kelly slammed Trump’s comments, questioning, “What other reason would anyone be using paracetamol?” She described the claims as “appalling” and part of a broader pattern of misinformation from the former president. Co-host Jonathan Healy echoed her sentiments, comparing Trump’s advice to previous misguided statements about bleach as a COVID-19 cure.

Healy emphasized the damaging implications of Trump’s remarks for parents of autistic children, stating, “It’s cruel to put this stuff in the ether to confuse and upset families.” He argued that autism is primarily linked to genetics, not medication, and criticized Trump’s audacity to make such claims without evidence.

The backlash extended beyond media commentary. The Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) quickly denounced Trump’s statements. Dr. Anne Dee, IMO President, labeled the claims as “demonstrably false and hugely irresponsible.” The IMO’s statement highlighted that there is no scientific evidence linking paracetamol usage during pregnancy to autism, stating, “This assertion does nothing but undermine pregnant women’s confidence in the medical system.”

Additionally, the autism charity AsIAm responded, expressing deep concern over the impact of Trump’s comments. Their statement read, “Such remarks are not grounded in credible scientific evidence and risk promoting a medicalised, stigmatising and ultimately harmful view of autistic people.” They reiterated that autism is a natural variation in human neurology, not a disease to be cured.

The emotional weight of the situation is palpable, with parents of autistic children sharing their distress. One mother expressed her outrage, stating, “As the mother of an autistic child, I find Donald Trump’s comments offensive.” She emphasized the value of autism, asserting that it contributes to the diversity of human experience, citing figures like Albert Einstein and Ludwig van Beethoven as examples of great minds who were likely neurodivergent.

As the situation develops, health officials urge the public to dismiss Trump’s claims, warning that misinformation poses a significant threat to public health. The IMO concluded with a call to action, stressing the importance of evidence-based science in healthcare.

With the conversation around autism and health misinformation intensifying, all eyes are on how the public and medical community will respond to Trump’s unfounded assertions. As authorities continue to address these claims, the focus remains on ensuring that accurate information prevails in discussions about autism and maternal health.