WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Monday urged pregnant women to avoid Tylenol, claiming its active ingredient, acetaminophen, increases autism risk in children. Health experts worldwide, however, say the evidence remains inconclusive.
FDA moves forward
Speaking in the Oval Office alongside Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump said the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will notify doctors to limit acetaminophen prescriptions for pregnant women and begin the process of updating warning labels.
“Effective immediately, the FDA will notify physicians that the use of acetaminophen — commonly known as Tylenol — during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of autism,” Trump said. “It is recommended to limit its use while pregnant unless otherwise advised by doctors.”
“Don’t take Tylenol,” Trump repeated. “Fight like hell not to take it.”
Experts push back
Medical groups quickly rejected the claim. They stressed that acetaminophen remains one of the safest pain relievers available to pregnant women.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists said the announcement “is not backed by the full body of scientific evidence.” The group also warned that discouraging Tylenol could force women to use riskier alternatives.
A 2024 study of 2.4 million Swedish children found no link between prenatal acetaminophen use and autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities. While some earlier research suggested possible associations, findings remain inconsistent.
Tylenol-maker Kenvue also defended the drug. The company said “independent, sound science clearly shows that taking acetaminophen does not cause autism.”
Autism debate grows
Autism diagnoses in the U.S. have risen sharply since 2000. Today, nearly 3% of 8-year-olds are identified with the condition.
Scientists say the increase reflects broader diagnostic criteria and greater awareness. They caution that autism is complex, shaped by both genetic and environmental factors. As a result, experts argue that blaming one widely used medication oversimplifies the science.
