President Donald Trump has raised concerns about the safety of Tylenol, also known as paracetamol, for pregnant women, claiming it may be linked to increased autism rates. His comments came during a meeting at the White House, where he was joined by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Dr. Mehmet Oz. Trump stated, "I’ve been waiting for this meeting for 20 years," emphasizing the alarming rise in autism diagnoses. He noted that the rate has increased from one in 10,000 children a few decades ago to one in 31 today, with even higher rates in some areas.

Trump claimed that in California, one in 12 boys are diagnosed with autism. He mentioned that after his reelection, he directed his doctors to investigate the rising autism rates. He suggested that certain groups who do not take vaccines or medications have lower autism rates, asking Kennedy for confirmation. Kennedy, a long-time vaccine skeptic, referenced studies suggesting lower autism rates among the Amish community.

In response to Trump's remarks, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia reaffirmed that paracetamol is considered safe for use during pregnancy. The TGA stated, "Paracetamol remains Pregnancy Category A in Australia," and there are no active safety investigations linking the drug to autism or neurodevelopmental disorders. They advised individuals to consult healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice.

Trump announced that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would notify physicians about potential risks associated with acetaminophen use during pregnancy. He stated, "Taking Tylenol is... not good. I’ll say it, it’s not good," and recommended that women limit its use unless medically necessary, particularly in cases of extreme fever.

He also addressed vaccines, suggesting that parents should space out vaccinations over several years. Trump criticized the current vaccination schedule, saying, "They pump so much stuff into those beautiful little babies, it’s a disgrace." He specifically mentioned the MMR vaccine, advocating for separate administration of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines.

Health experts reacted strongly to Trump's statements. Dr. Steven Fleischman, president of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, expressed concern that such claims could alarm expectant mothers. He emphasized that not treating a fever could pose greater risks than taking medication. Dr. Susan Kressly, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, reiterated that numerous studies have found no credible link between vaccines and autism, warning that misrepresenting scientific evidence could endanger children's health.

The FDA's recent guidance on acetaminophen reflects ongoing uncertainty about its potential link to autism. While some studies suggest a possible association, many others do not. The FDA acknowledged that while an association has been described, a causal relationship has not been established.

In addition to addressing Tylenol and vaccines, the FDA announced it is exploring a new treatment for autism involving leucovorin, a folic acid metabolite. This treatment is based on the theory that some individuals with autism may have low folate levels in the brain. However, experts caution that more rigorous studies are needed to determine its effectiveness.

As autism rates continue to rise, with one in 40 people affected in Australia, health authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Health Minister Mark Butler stated that the Australian government is keeping a watchful eye on developments related to Trump's claims.