Donald Trump is reportedly preparing to link the use of Tylenol by pregnant women to autism, a claim that has already drawn concern from medical experts. The U.S. president is expected to announce the White House, despite inconsistent scientific evidence. Pharmaceutical companies and leading health organizations stress that acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, remains one of the safest pain relief options for expectant mothers.
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Trump Teases Autism Announcement
Speaking at the Charlie Kirk memorial service, Trump said he had an “amazing” revelation about autism, calling it “out of control” and suggesting officials may now know why. Reports indicate the announcement will advise pregnant women to take Tylenol to reduce fever, but it will also link the drug’s use to autism, a controversial and unproven claim.
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Conflicting Research Findings
Some studies have suggested a possible connection between prenatal Tylenol use and autism, but findings remain inconsistent. A 2024 study found no relationship between exposure and autism, while a Harvard-led review in 2023 noted a potential increased risk but emphasized the drug’s importance in treating maternal fever and pain. Experts widely caution against drawing direct cause-and-effect conclusions.
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Manufacturer Defends Safety
Tylenol’s maker, Kenvue, strongly rejected the reported claims, stressing that independent research does not support any link between acetaminophen and autism. “We strongly disagree with any suggestion otherwise and are deeply concerned with the health risk this poses for expecting mothers,” the company told the BBC. It added that removing Tylenol from use would leave pregnant women with unsafe alternatives.
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Medical Groups Respond
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology reaffirmed that Tylenol is one of the only consistently safe pain relievers for pregnant women. The organization pointed to decades of studies showing no direct evidence of fetal developmental issues tied to prudent acetaminophen use. Other global medical bodies continue to recommend the drug as a standard treatment during pregnancy.
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Autism Causes Remain Complex
Researchers caution that autism cannot be traced to a single cause. Most evidence points to a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Autism diagnoses have risen sharply since 2000, partly due to greater awareness and expanded definitions. Experts say blaming one widely used medication oversimplifies decades of scientific research into the condition.
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Rising Political Pressure
Earlier this year, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. promised “a massive testing and research effort” to identify autism’s causes. Kennedy has previously promoted discredited theories, including the false claim that vaccines are responsible for rising autism rates. Experts warn that politicizing scientific research risks spreading misinformation and eroding public trust.
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Impact on Markets
Reports of Trump’s expected remarks have already hit shares of Tylenol’s parent company. Investors remain wary as any government-linked statement could affect consumer confidence, despite assurances from medical groups and pharmaceutical leaders about the drug’s safety.