On Monday, September 23rd, President Donald Trump claimed that acetaminophen, commonly sold as Tylenol, may increase the risk of autism when used during pregnancy. Alongside Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump urged expectant mothers to avoid the medication unless treating a fever. The FDA said it is sending letters to physicians and updating product labels but emphasized that a causal link has not been established.
Tylenol maker Kenvue rejected the claim, calling acetaminophen “the safest pain reliever option for pregnant women” and warning that limiting its use could lead to riskier alternatives. Medical experts also criticized the announcement. Dr. Steven J. Fleischman of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists described it as “irresponsible,” noting that untreated fevers can endanger both mother and fetus. Epidemiologist Ann Bauer, whose research was cited by the White House, said her work was misrepresented and any potential association would account for only a fraction of autism cases. CDC officials confirmed they were not consulted before the statement.
