No evidence that Tylenol causes autism, say Health Canada, World Health Organization

TORONTO — Health Canada, the World Health Organization and Canadian autism experts say there is no evidence that taking Tylenol during pregnancy causes autism.

Health Canada and the WHO issued statements last night and this morning in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's unproven claim linking the drug — whose generic name is acetaminophen — to the disorder.

Health Canada says acetaminophen is a "recommended treatment of pain or fever in pregnancy" and "has been used safely by millions of Canadians for decades, including during pregnancy and while breastfeeding."

It says not treating fever and pain in pregnant women can pose risks to the unborn child.

Health Canada says people who are pregnant should take the medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible.