ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)— The Health Community shared reaction this week following an announcement from the federal government regarding potential links between acetaminophen and autism.
New York State Health Commissioner, Dr. James McDonald, is sharing his response after the federal government said some studies suggest that using acetaminophen during pregnancy may cause neurological effects in children.
“Acetaminophen is a medication that has been around for many, many years, and is really very safe during pregnancy,” said McDonald. “It is actually the safest over the counter medicine for fever or pain for someone who is pregnant.”
Acetaminophen is an ingredient in the brand name medicine, Tylenol. On Monday, Robert F. Kennedy Jr, made this announcement.
“The FDA is responding to clinical and laboratory studies that suggest a potential association between acetaminophen used during pregnancy and adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes including later diagnosis for ADHD and autism, ” said Kennedy.
As a result, The Federal Drug Administration will begin the process of changing the label for Tylenol and similar medicines. Commissioner McDonald doesn’t think that’s necessary.
“I don’t think you need new labeling for Tylenol,” said McDonald. “I think quite frankly it is just going to confuse people here. Because here is the concern— when someone is pregnant and they have a fever, that is an important medical problem. You need to get attention for this. But quite frankly, doctors know how to manage this here. Quite frankly, there is no compelling evidence that Tylenol even produces any risk here to someone who is pregnant.”
Democratic State Assemblyman, Angelo Santabarbara, has a son with autism and serves as the chair of the Assembly’s Committee on People with Disabilities.
He released a statement saying in part that the “…federal announcement reminds us how complex autism is — and how urgently families need clarity. While researchers examine possible causes, my focus is on ensuring families have support they can trust: therapies, educational opportunities, housing, and workforce programs that help individuals reach their fullest potential.”
Republican Senator Jake Ashby, who serves on the Health Committee stated, “Recent years have been rife with controversial and polarizing healthcare discourse from officials on both sides of the aisle in Washington and Albany. My advice is for people to do what I do: find a doctor you trust, contact them when you have questions and do what they tell you to do,”
For anyone wondering how to sort through the messaging of this announcement, Commissioner McDonald reiterated, “If you’re pregnant, talk with your doctor about your unique medical question. Get customized personalized advice.”
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