“Don’t take it!” thundered Donald Trump in September 2025. With this warning intended for pregnant women, the American President linked paracetamol with the risk of developing autism spectrum disorders (ASD). But what does the medical community really say about it? What are the studies on the subject? The update with the insight of Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of True Medical.
The autism-paracetamol link: what do the studies show?
For several years, observational studies have shown a statistical association between prenatal exposure to paracetamol and a slightly increased risk of ASD or ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). But as Dr. Kierzek reminds us: “Association is not causation“. And moreover, Donald Trump’s allegations have been widely denounced by the scientific community. Shortly after these statements, the World Health Organization (WHO) had already declared that there was no conclusive evidence indicating that paracetamol increases the risk of autism in the fetus. A finding also made by the Medicines Agency in France (ANSM) which indicated that: “To date, available data do not show a link between taking paracetamol during pregnancy and autism.“.
At the beginning of November, a new study published in The British Medical Journal yet again provides new proof in this sense. Strictly speaking, this is not new research but rather the most exhaustive and precise analysis on this subject. It brings together credible studies on the subject. While some research has indeed suggested a possible correlation between paracetamol and autism or ADHD, their reliability is considered “low” or “extremely low” by the authors of the BMJ study. These studies often do not sufficiently take into account other factors, such as genetic predispositions or maternal health problems. Conclusion of the authors: “Currently available data are insufficient to prove a link between exposure to paracetamol in utero and autism and attention deficit disorder (ADHD) during childhood.“.
These criticisms apply in particular to a study published in 2025 in the journal Environmental Healthfrequently cited by the Trump administration. Conversely, the BMJ’s analysis “is based on a high-quality methodology that confirms what experts say around the world”according to the British Science Media Center.
The use of paracetamol during pregnancy
Paracetamol is the reference analgesic and antipyretic in France (e.g. Doliprane, Dafalgan) during pregnancy, because non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are not recommended, particularly at the end of pregnancy.
Dr Gérald Kierzek confirms that “paracetamol does not pose these known risks and has no effect on fetal circulation when used correctly“. However, he recommends using it only “as little as possible, for as short a time as possible“. Thus, beyond the debate on autism, it remains fundamental to remember that any medication taken during pregnancy must be reasoned. With a dosage of 3 grams per day for an adult, the pregnant woman must however take the lowest dose.
Dr. Kierzek’s recommendations
For anyone wondering:
- Use paracetamol only if necessary (severe fever or disabling pain), and not systematically: “You should not take it for several consecutive days without medical advice.” ;
- Adopt the minimum effective dose and the shortest duration possible. Dr. Kierzek emphasizes: “Do not panic if you took paracetamol during your pregnancy by following the recommendationss” ;
- Don’t ignore that a fever can indicate an infection – “It can reveal an infection such as listeriosis and requires rapid consultation.” ;
- Always consult your doctor, gynecologist or midwife before taking any medication: “Paracetamol is safe when used correctly. The danger is trivialization“.
In summary, paracetamol remains a useful tool but should be used with caution during pregnancy. We must not give in to panic, but remain vigilant with supervised use.