Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have reignited a contentious debate over whether prenatal use of Tylenol (acetaminophen) may be linked to autism, sparking new scrutiny from health officials, medical experts, and the public.
Speaking in the Roosevelt Room on Monday, Trump told reporters, “My advice is simple: Don’t take Tylenol when you’re pregnant. It increases the risk of autism.”
His administration has asked the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to consider adding warning labels about potential risks and pledged further studies into the issue.
Kennedy, who has long campaigned on medical safety concerns, supported a closer look at acetaminophen, saying pregnant women deserve clearer information.
Tylenol’s parent company, Kenvue, rejected the claims in a statement to People, emphasizing that “independent research demonstrates acetaminophen does not cause autism” and noting the drug’s decades-long record of safe use. The company cautioned that discouraging acetaminophen could create risks for pregnant women who need safe treatment for fever and pain.
Doctors also weighed in, urging caution against misinterpretation. Dr. Karam Radwan, Director of the UChicago Medicine Neurodevelopmental Clinic, told People that “the safety profile for Tylenol is impressive” and that it remains among the safest treatment options during pregnancy.
He stressed that while certain studies have suggested associations between long-term acetaminophen use and neurodevelopmental outcomes, none have proven a direct causal link.
Meanwhile, researchers are exploring whether folate metabolism may play a role in autism.
The Trump administration highlighted leucovorin, a folate-based drug, as a potential treatment for autism symptoms in children with related metabolic issues, though experts note further trials are needed before drawing conclusions.
Health officials continue to recommend that pregnant women consult their doctors before making any changes to medication use.
While studies into acetaminophen’s potential effects remain ongoing, the prevailing medical consensus is that Tylenol is safe when taken as directed.
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