Trump Links Tylenol to Autism Despite Lack of Evidence, Doctors Push Back

President Donald Trump has claimed that Tylenol, also known as paracetamol, may be linked to autism when used during pregnancy, despite a lack of scientific proof. He urged pregnant women to avoid the drug unless absolutely necessary and said new guidance will advise U.S. doctors to stop prescribing it as a routine pain reliever. The remarks were made alongside Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who said the Food and Drug Administration will issue a notice to physicians, begin changing Tylenol’s safety label, and launch a public health awareness campaign. Trump also described autism as a “horrible crisis” and promised urgent action.

See also: (In the US) Trump Administration to Link Tylenol Use in Pregnancy to Autism Risk

Medical experts immediately condemned the claims, warning that discouraging Tylenol use could endanger women’s health. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists stressed that acetaminophen has consistently been identified as one of the safest medications for pregnant women. Studies over the past decades have shown no clear evidence of a causal link between Tylenol use and autism. Health authorities in the U.K. and other countries continue to recommend paracetamol as the preferred option for fever and pain during pregnancy.

Trump and Kennedy also announced that the FDA will approve leucovorin, a drug traditionally used to counter chemotherapy side effects, for autism treatment in children with folate deficiencies. Kennedy said research suggests leucovorin may improve verbal communication, but experts cautioned that existing trials are small and inconclusive. The Autism Science Foundation noted that while low folate levels in pregnancy may play a role in autism risk, no single cause of autism has been proven, and more extensive research is required.

Recent scientific studies further highlight the uncertainty. A Harvard-led review in 2023 suggested limiting Tylenol use during pregnancy due to potential risks, but researchers stressed that maternal fever itself can also harm fetal development, meaning treatment remains essential. In contrast, a major 2024 study of 2.4 million Swedish children found no link between Tylenol exposure in the womb and autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability. Experts say rising autism diagnoses since 2000 are largely explained by better awareness and broader definitions, not a single environmental factor. Critics argue Trump’s comments oversimplify a complex condition and risk spreading dangerous misinformation to vulnerable mothers.

See also: UK Warns Israel Against Retaliation After Recognising Palestinian State