No conclusive evidence linking acetaminophen to autism, says Health Canada in rebuke to Trump

This Dec. 18, 2019, photo shows generic acetaminophen capsules. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

There is “no conclusive evidence” that using acetaminophen as directed during pregnancy causes autism, Health Canada said Tuesday.

The statement contradicts U.S. President Donald Trump, who linked the painkiller, sold commonly as Tylenol, to autism on Monday. During a news conference, he told Americans to “fight like hell not to take it.”

Health Canada, in contrast to the president, encouraged Canadians to continue using acetaminophen for pain and fever relief, so long as they follow the directions on the package and take the lowest effective dose.

“It has been used safely by millions of Canadians for decades, including during pregnancy and while breastfeeding,” wrote Health Canada. “Untreated fever and pain in pregnant women can pose risks to the unborn child.”

“Let’s not forget that pregnant women do get sick, they do develop fevers, they do develop pain. Tylenol is probably safer than many of the other over-the-counter medications,” cardiologist Dr. Chris Labos told CTV News earlier this week.

However, overdosing on the drug can lead to liver damage. It’s a leading cause of acute liver failure in Canada and the U.S.

What is autism?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects people in different ways through their life.

It may impact people’s ways of communicating and connecting with others, their focus, or change the way people process sensory information. Health Canada writes that people with ASD may also experience physical, learning, or mental health conditions, like epilepsy and sleep disorders.

It is not caused by vaccinations or parenting styles, the department adds.