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Paracetamol, a common and affordable over-the-counter painkiller and fever reducer, is a household name in India, unlike its American counterpart, Tylenol
A key concern raised by experts is that fear-driven announcements may lead pregnant women to avoid necessary treatments for pain and fever. (AI generated)
A key concern raised by experts is that fear-driven announcements may lead pregnant women to avoid necessary treatments for pain and feverAn advisory by Donald Trump urging pregnant women to “strongly limit” their use of Tylenol (acetaminophen/paracetamol), citing a possible link to autism and ADHD, has sparked a debate and drawn sharp criticism from medical professionals worldwide, including in India.
While the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reportedly considering updated warnings, doctors and major medical associations are pushing back, emphasising that the scientific evidence does not support a causal link. This development is particularly significant for India, a major global producer of paracetamol, as it could impact public health guidelines and the country’s pharmaceutical industry.
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Paracetamol: A Global Staple Under Scrutiny
Paracetamol, a common and affordable over-the-counter painkiller and fever reducer, is a household name in India, unlike its American counterpart, Tylenol. This makes any global discussion or regulatory change concerning the drug directly relevant to public health in India. Trump’s claims, which he stated are not as a doctor, but as a strong recommendation, suggest that pregnant women should “tough it out” instead of taking the medicine unless they have an “extremely high fever.”
Indian Medical Experts Urge Calm
Indian medical professionals are urging pregnant women not to panic and to trust their doctors’ advice. Dr Vaishali Sharma, an obstetrician and gynaecologist with AIIMS, acknowledged that prolonged use of any medication during pregnancy can be harmful, but firmly stated there is no direct link between paracetamol and autism. “There are some international studies suggesting a neurological effect, but for a high-grade fever, paracetamol is the medicine prescribed,” she said, stressing that expecting mothers should only take the drug when advised by their doctors. She cautioned against the “over-the-counter” use of any medication during pregnancy.
Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Jayashree Sundar, an obstetrician and gynaecologist with 30 years of experience, stated that there’s no “direct or causative link to suggest paracetamol and autism”. She emphasised that her decades of experience include prescribing paracetamol to pregnant patients for joint pains and that it is a crucial medication for reducing high fevers, which can harm the baby if left untreated. “People should not panic listening to the US President,” she added, highlighting that studies and government health bodies, such as in England, have deemed the drug safe for use during pregnancy.
A Ripple Effect On India’s Pharma Industry
The controversy could have significant consequences for India’s pharmaceutical sector. As a major manufacturer and exporter of paracetamol, any shift in global demand or regulatory changes, especially in a key market like the U.S., could affect Indian pharma companies and export volumes. The potential for new warning labels or altered packaging could also affect international consumer trust in Indian-supplied generics.
Public Health At Risk
A key concern raised by experts is that fear-driven announcements may lead pregnant women to avoid necessary treatments for pain and fever, which can pose their own risks to both the mother and the foetus.
For instance, an untreated high fever can be more dangerous than taking a prescribed dose of paracetamol. This is particularly concerning for pregnant women in rural or under-resourced areas who may have limited access to professional medical advice and might rely on general, and now potentially fear-based, information.
The situation underscores the importance of public health bodies and doctors providing clear, evidence-based guidance to counter misinformation and ensure the safe use of essential medications.
September 23, 2025, 16:04 IST
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