USFDA Concerns on Acetaminophen Use in Pregnancy
The United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has issued a letter to doctors addressing the potential risks associated with the use of acetaminophen (known as Tylenol in the US) during pregnancy. This is in response to concerns over possible links to autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Key Highlights
- The FDA aims to inform parents and doctors about the body of evidence suggesting potential risks of acetaminophen use during pregnancy.
- The warnings followed claims by US President Donald Trump and US Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr about a possible link between Tylenol and increased autism risk.
- Tylenol, containing acetaminophen, is produced by Kenvue, formerly a part of Johnson & Johnson.
Global and Economic Implications
- There is uncertainty regarding the impact of these announcements on India's paracetamol exports to the US.
- India's paracetamol exports totaled $182.31 billion in 2023–24, with $21.98 billion exported to the US.
Scientific and Medical Advisory
- While many studies describe an association between acetaminophen and autism, no causal relationship has been established.
- The FDA recommends clinicians minimize acetaminophen use for routine low-grade fevers in pregnancy, considering the overall safety of acetaminophen compared to other analgesics like aspirin and ibuprofen.
- Despite concerns, acetaminophen remains the safest over-the-counter alternative for pregnant women among analgesics and antipyretics.