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Tengrinews.kz – Donald Trump’s recent remarks about a possible link between taking Tylenol (paracetamol) during pregnancy and autism in children have sparked debate. Kazakh scientist Nariman Amantaev, who studies autism spectrum disorder (ASD), says there is no scientific evidence to support such claims.
Amantaev, a graduate of Nazarbayev University and a PhD candidate at McGill University in Montreal, explained that large-scale studies have found no causal connection.
"One of the biggest studies, involving nearly 2.5 million children, found no link between paracetamol use and autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities," he noted.
Japanese researchers reached similar conclusions in 2025 after examining the health of 220,000 children.
The scientist added that while some studies suggest a correlation, this does not prove causation.
"Women who take paracetamol are more likely to have health problems, which themselves can affect neurological development. Observers may wrongly attribute these outcomes to the drug," Amantaev said, pointing to the concept of confounding factors in science.
Medical organizations also back this view. The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada recently confirmed that acetaminophen remains a safe option for treating pain and fever during pregnancy when used as directed. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) also lists the drug among the safest options. Manufacturer Kenvue, which produces Tylenol, has denied any causal link.
As for suggestions that breakthroughs in autism treatment may be near, Amantaev expressed skepticism
"Autism is a congenital, genetic condition. People are born with it, and no single medication can override all genetic factors," he stressed.
