Former US President Donald Trump urged pregnant women to avoid Tylenol, claiming the pain reliever could lead to autism in children. Speaking at a public event, Trump admitted he was sharing his personal opinion, not medical advice. “Don’t take Tylenol if you’re pregnant,” he repeated several times, adding, “I’m not a doctor, I’m just using common sense.”
Health experts quickly pushed back. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said research shows some studies note a possible association between acetaminophen—the main ingredient in Tylenol—and neurological conditions, but no proof of a direct link exists. The agency stressed that acetaminophen remains the only over-the-counter medicine approved to treat fevers during pregnancy. High fevers can harm unborn babies.
Kenvue, Tylenol’s manufacturer, said acetaminophen is safe for pregnant women and warned that avoiding it could force mothers to use riskier alternatives. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists called Trump’s comments “irresponsible,” while other medical groups reminded the public that vaccines also do not cause autism.
Doctors fear Trump’s remarks could scare pregnant women away from safe treatments and increase risks for both mothers and babies.
