Trump Advises Against Tylenol Use in Pregnancy, Citing Autism Concerns
New Guidance Sparks Controversy in Medical Community
Doctors across the United States may soon be advised not to prescribe Tylenol to pregnant women, following an announcement by President Donald Trump in the Oval Office on Monday. Standing alongside Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump claimed that acetaminophen — the active ingredient in Tylenol — could be linked to autism, urging its use only in cases of extreme fever.
Disputed Link Between Tylenol and Autism
Some studies have suggested a possible association between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism spectrum disorder. However, researchers stress that the findings remain inconsistent and inconclusive.
Tylenol manufacturer Kenvue strongly rejected the claims, stating:
“We believe independent, sound science clearly shows that taking acetaminophen does not cause autism. We strongly disagree with any suggestion otherwise and are deeply concerned about the health risk this poses for expecting mothers.”
The company emphasized that acetaminophen remains one of the safest pain relievers available for pregnant women. Without it, expectant mothers might face the dangerous choice of enduring untreated fever or turning to higher-risk alternatives.
FDA Prepares Safety Label Changes
Health Secretary Kennedy announced that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will soon issue an advisory notice to physicians about potential risks associated with Tylenol during pregnancy. The agency will also explore changes to the drug’s safety labeling and launch a public awareness campaign.
Kennedy further revealed that the FDA intends to approve Leucovorin, a decades-old drug historically used to protect cancer patients during chemotherapy, as a potential treatment for some children with autism.
Could Leucovorin Help Children With Autism?
Leucovorin, also known as folinic acid, is being studied for its ability to improve communication skills in autistic children with folate deficiencies. Research suggests folinic acid may cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively than standard folic acid supplements.
Early clinical trials, including a 2016 U.S. study involving 48 children, reported improvements in verbal communication. Still, experts caution that the science is in its infancy, and more large-scale studies are needed before drawing firm conclusions.
Medical Experts Push Back
Leading doctors and medical groups have expressed strong concerns over Trump’s remarks.
Dr. Steven Fleischman, president of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, criticized the announcement, saying it is not backed by the full body of evidence and oversimplifies the complex causes of autism.
Professional associations worldwide continue to recommend acetaminophen as a safe option during pregnancy when used responsibly. They note that no conclusive evidence links the medication to fetal developmental issues.
Mixed Research Findings
While some studies, including a 2023 Harvard review, suggested a possible increased risk of autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders, more recent large-scale research contradicts those claims.
A 2024 Swedish study of 2.4 million children found no link between acetaminophen exposure in pregnancy and autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability. Researchers emphasized that the results do not support restricting Tylenol use for expectant mothers.
Dr. Monique Botha, a professor at Durham University, said:
“There is no robust evidence to suggest a causal relationship. Pain relief for pregnant women is already very limited, and Tylenol remains one of the only safe options.”
Autism Rates and Ongoing Debate
According to the CDC, autism diagnoses among U.S. 8-year-olds rose to 2.77% in 2020, up sharply from 2000. Scientists attribute the increase to greater awareness, improved diagnostic criteria, and possibly environmental factors — but not a single cause.
Critics also point out that Kennedy has previously promoted discredited theories linking vaccines to autism, despite overwhelming scientific evidence to the contrary.