Explained: How Safe Is Tylenol, The Drug Donald Trump Raised Concerns About

Donald Trump has taken the medical world by storm with his recent statement on Tylenol. Addressing an event at White House on Monday, the US President warned pregnant women to avoid Tylenol, known as paracetamol in most parts of the world, due to its alleged links to autism. He urged pregnant women to ‘fight like hell not to take it’. Medical experts have strongly responded against the claims. Health officials in the UK emphasised that paracetamol is the safest available painkiller for pregnant women. Without delving deep into the debate, let us try and understand what Tylenol is and how safe it is overall.

What Is Tylenol?

Tylenol is used to reduce fever and relieve minor pain caused by conditions, such as colds or flu, headache, muscle aches, arthritis, menstrual cramps, and fever.

Acetaminophen is an active ingredient in Tylenol and over 600 other over-the-counter and prescription medicines. Acetaminophen is the generic name for the brand name Tylenol. The drug is called acetaminophen in the United States and Japan.

One should consume Tylenol as directed on the label or as prescribed by the doctor.

Adults and teenagers who weigh at least 50 kilograms (kgs): Do not take more than 1000 milligrams (mg) at one time. Do not take more than 4000 mg in 24 hours.
Children below 12 years old: Do not take more than 5 doses of acetaminophen in 24 hours. Use only the number of milligrams per dose that is recommended as per the child's weight and age. Use exactly as directed on the label.

Is Tylenol And Paracetamol The Same?

Tylenol and paracetamol are the same medication. Tylenol is known as paracetamol in Europe and in most parts of the world. Acetaminophen is the generic name assigned using the US Adopted Names (USAN) system. Paracetamol is the name given using the International Nonproprietary Name (INN) generic name system.

Typically, the INN and USAN assigned names for an identical drug substance are the same and do not differ between countries, but that is not the case with acetaminophen.

When Should We Take Tylenol?

Tylenol is sold as a tablet, chewable tablet, capsule, suspension or solution (liquid), extended-release (long-acting) tablet, and orally disintegrating tablet (tablet that dissolves quickly in the mouth). It is commonly used to:

• Reduce fever
• Relieve pain from headaches
• Soothe muscle aches
• Relieve Menstrual cramps
• Treat sore throats, toothaches and backaches

Risk Factors While Consuming Acetaminophen

As per FDA, one should not exceed its daily limit of when using a single medicine or combination of medicines containing this drug. If taken correctly, these medicines can be safe and effective. Too much consumption of acetaminophen may lead to overdose and severe liver damage.

Symptoms of acetaminophen overdose may consist of nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion and jaundice. Some people may not show any symptoms. These signs take several days to appear. Symptoms may initially look similar to that of flu or cold. Severe cases of acetaminophen overdose may require liver transplantation and can even cause death.

Is Tylenol Safe During Pregnancy?

As per a recent notice issued by the US FDA, consumption of Tylenol during pregnancy is not recommended. The notice mentioned: “In recent years, evidence has accumulated suggesting that the use of acetaminophen by pregnant women may be associated with an increased risk of neurological conditions such as autism and ADHD in children.” The organisation further clarified: “The association is an ongoing area of scientific debate.”

Dr Aastik Joshi, Child, Adolescent and Forensic Psychiatrist, Fortis Hospital, New Delhi, shares his insight on this topic. “The causes of autism and ADHD are multifactorial in nature and include both genetic and environmental risk factors. In my opinion, there is no conclusive evidence as of yet that is both scientifically valid and reliable that indicates the consumption of advised amounts of paracetamol by the mother during pregnancy leads to an increased likelihood of autism spectrum disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD),” explains Dr Aastik Joshi.

What Is The Recent Debate All About?

The central reason for the recent debate surrounding Tylenol arises after the Donald Trump administration's claim that its use during pregnancy increases the risk of autism and ADHD. The conflicting information has given way to confusion among pregnant women and healthcare professionals. Further, this has raised concerns about unnecessary avoidance of medicines for fevers during pregnancy.

Bottomline

Donal Trump’s controversial remark on Tylenol has raised concern on its consumption by pregnant women. But there is no solid scientific evidence as of now to back the claim. However, studies have time and again warned people against overuse of Tylenol.