Paracetamol, one of the world’s most popular drugs Image Credit Source: Getty Images
Paracetamol aur autism connection: Recently there was a big controversy over paracetamol, one of the world’s most popular drugs. US President Donald Trump claimed that taking Tilanol (which is the brand name of paracetamol, knows paracetamol by the same name in the US may increase the risk of autism, especially the risk of pregnant women. According to Trump, eating this medicine during pregnancy can cause an autism to the child. But is Trump’s claim right?
Tilanol is the brand name of paracetamolWhich is a widely used over-the-counter medicine that serves as a pain reliever and fever-reducing drug. Paracetamol is commonly used to treat minor pain, including headache, back pain, minor pain of arthritis, toothache, muscle pain, before menstruation and menstrual cramps. It is also used to temporarily reduce fever.
Is there a risk of autism from paracetamol?
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former Chief Scientist and well-known pediatrician of WHO Has clearly stated that paracetamol is a safe and effective medicine. He says that “there is no scientific evidence so far that proves a relationship between paracetamol and autism.” Paracetamol maker and international medical organizations say that paracetamol is also safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it should be taken according to the advice of the doctor.
Pediatrician Dr. Arun Shah said in a conversation with TV9 that paracetamol is one of the safest drugs. Gynecology and Maternity Association (Figo) recommends its use. There is no problem with taking this medicine on the advice of a doctor. Jama Journal In research published in this, this medicine has been described as safe.
Why Paracetamol is reliable medicine
- Dr. Swaminathan said that paracetamol has been used to reduce fever and pain for years and it is included in the most given medicines worldwide. Headache, toothache, back pain, muscle stretch, menstrual pain, this drug is effective in all kinds of minor pain. According to the advice of the doctor, this medicine is completely safe if used.
- He also warned that the use of paracetamol in prolonged and excessive amounts can cause damage to the kidney like any medicine. But there is no need to panic on general and necessary use.
Trump’s statement
In his statement, Trump advised pregnant women to avoid tilanol and claim that this could increase the risk of autism in children. But he did not put any solid scientific data or medical study in front. He just said that “if women do not take it then there is no harm, just have to bear some pain.”
The company denied
The company making the Tilanol also dismissed Trump’s talk, saying that “all the research and scientific figures so far show that there is no direct connection between paracetamol and autism.”