The Federal Ministry of Health in Germany has reaffirmed the safety of paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, in response to recent discussions surrounding the medication in the United States. A Ministry spokesperson, responding to inquiries from the dts news agency, emphasized that paracetamol has been an approved medication for years, including for use during pregnancy.
The approved uses for paracetamol include the relief of mild to moderate pain, such as headaches and menstrual cramps. The spokesperson stated that no plausible mechanism has been identified that would link paracetamol use to developmental conditions like ADHD or autism spectrum disorders.
However, the spokesperson reiterated that medications should only be taken during pregnancy when medically necessary and then at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest possible duration. Both Germany and the European Union maintain rigorous systems for monitoring pharmaceuticals and ongoing communication occurs with relevant regulatory bodies.
The recent discussion in the U.S. followed statements made by President Donald Trump and Health Minister Robert F. Kennedy Jr. suggesting a possible connection between paracetamol use during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism. This assertion is not universally accepted and many experts highlight the conflicting nature of existing studies.