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Dilip Surana pointed out that avoiding treatment during pregnancy altogether could carry its own dangers
Dolo-650, the flagship brand of Micro Labs, is the top-selling paracetamol in India with sales of over Rs 300 crore in the moving annual total (MAT) for July 2025, as per IQVIA data. File image
As the debate around paracetamol and pregnancy intensifies following claims by US President Donald Trump, the maker of India’s top-selling paracetamol brand Dolo has stepped in to calm concerns.
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Dilip Surana, chairman and managing director of Micro Labs — the company behind the brand Dolo – told News18 in an exclusive interaction that the global scientific consensus does not support the alleged link between paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism.
‘Most rigorous studies found no link’
Surana said recent claims must be weighed against established research. “While recent claims linking paracetamol use during pregnancy to autism have emerged, it’s crucial to recognise that the World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the evidence remains inconsistent and lacks replicability.” He stressed that the most rigorous studies have not found a link.
“Scientists say that the most robust research does not link autism and acetaminophen use in pregnancy,” he explained.
At the same time, Surana pointed out that avoiding treatment altogether could carry its own dangers. “Untreated fever during pregnancy can pose risks to both the mother and the foetus, making it essential to manage such symptoms appropriately.”
Dolo-650, the flagship brand of Micro Labs, is the top-selling paracetamol in India with sales of over Rs 300 crore in the moving annual total (MAT) for July 2025, as per IQVIA data. The brand is also the most prescribed, accounting for 0.66% of total prescriptions in the country between November 2024 and February 2025.
Indian pregnant women known for vigilance: Surana
Surana also highlighted the Indian context, describing how expectant mothers in this country are especially cautious. “In India, expectant mothers are known for their vigilance and care during pregnancy. Our medical professionals are well-equipped to provide guidance on safe medication use,” he said.
Reinforcing his company’s stance, he emphasised responsible use under professional guidance. “At Micro Labs, we emphasise that any medication, including paracetamol, should be used under medical supervision, and we support evidence-based practices to ensure the health and safety of both mother and child.”
His remarks echo the findings of large-scale studies, including Swedish registry data covering 2.4 million children, which found no association between paracetamol use in pregnancy and autism. A global review published earlier this year reached the same conclusion.
Also, on Tuesday night, the UK’s drug regulator, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), stepped in with a clarification, stating: “There is no evidence that taking paracetamol during pregnancy causes autism in children.” It reaffirmed that paracetamol remains the first-choice painkiller for expectant mothers when used at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest possible duration.
About the Author
Himani Chandna, Associate Editor at CNN News18, specialises in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. With firsthand insights into India’s COVID-19 battle, she brings a seasoned perspective. She is particularly pass…Read More
Himani Chandna, Associate Editor at CNN News18, specialises in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. With firsthand insights into India’s COVID-19 battle, she brings a seasoned perspective. She is particularly pass… Read More
September 24, 2025, 12:30 IST
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