https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2025/09/28/trump-tylenol-autism-free-speech-israel
The science of determining medication risk during pregnancy is complex. Recommendations change over time as we accumulate more scientific evidence, and all health care providers agree that we should limit unnecessary medication use during pregnancy. But right now, there is no convincing evidence to support a causal relationship between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism. On the other hand, there is plenty of evidence that physiological stress on a mother can be harmful to a developing fetus. High fevers can cause miscarriage, premature birth and birth defects. And even if we ignore fetal risk, women should not have to unnecessarily grit their teeth through fever and pain for nine months.
1. Tylenol manufacturer hasn't recommended it for pregnant women since at least 2017.
ReplyDelete2. Tylenol does not cure any medical condition, it only relieves symptoms (pains).
3. In fact, it's not exactly recommended for shabbat use, a whole other halachic issue.
I also treat pregnant women in the ER and with any medication, it's "Do you absolutely need it? If you don't take it, will the outcomees be worse?"
ReplyDeleteAnti-depressants are a great example. Some concern with congenital malformations. Lots of concern with foetal brain development if the mom spends the entire pregnancy in severe depression. So what do you do? Have a discussion of the risks and benefits and make the best decision with the info you have at the time.