Health Canada pushes back on Trump’s acetaminophen claims

Canadian health officials are weighing in on the controversy surrounding a popular over-the-counter pain reliever.

Earlier this week, U.S. President Donald Trump said evidence suggests a link between acetaminophen and autism.

“Don’t take Tylenol if you’re pregnant, and don’t give Tylenol to your child,” Trump said during a briefing at the White House.

But Health Canada said acetaminophen remains a recommended treatment for fever and pain during pregnancy.

“There is no conclusive evidence that using acetaminophen as directed during pregnancy causes autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders,” the agency said in a statement.

“It has been used safely by millions of Canadians for decades, including during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.”

Health Canada said the medication is a recommended treatment of pain and fever in pregnancy “when used as directed.”

“Do not take more than the recommended dose. Taking too much acetaminophen can cause harm, including serious harm to your liver,” it said.

The agency also noted that untreated fever and pain in pregnant women can pose risks to the unborn child.

Health Canada said its advice is based on “robust, rigorous assessments of the available scientific evidence.”

“Any new evidence that could affect our recommendations will be carefully evaluated,” it said.