One of the most popular painkillers used in the US could be the cause of autism in children when taken during pregnancy . The Donald Trump administration claims this based on a series of studies and research conducted in recent months, which have been contested by the scientific community, the Food and Drug Administration, and, of course, the company that produces the incriminated drug .
The American president previewed the announcement, which is expected later this evening, during his speech at the Charlie Kirk memorial service. "We have found an answer to autism," the tycoon said, emphasizing that it will be "one of the most important press conferences of his presidency."
The drug that, according to the administration, is responsible for the disease in children is called Tylenol and is sold in the United States, Canada, and other countries. Its main ingredient is paracetamol, like Tylenol .
In April, the US Secretary of Health announced a "major research effort" to determine the cause of autism within five months, also putting vaccines under the microscope. But the widespread opinion in the scientific community is that there is no single cause for autism and therefore no single cure . Furthermore, both the FDA and most American researchers, and beyond, agree that paracetamol is the safest substance for pregnant women in case of headaches, fever, or other infections .
"Independent and reliable science clearly demonstrates that it does not cause autism. We strongly disagree with any hypothesis to the contrary and are deeply concerned about the health risks to expectant mothers," reads a statement from the pharmaceutical company that makes Tylenol, Kenvue. "Acetaminophen is the safest painkiller for pregnant women," it added, "and without it, they would face a dangerous choice: suffer from illnesses like fever or resort to riskier alternatives."
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology also stated that doctors across the United States have consistently identified Tylenol as one of the few pain relievers that are safe for pregnant women .
