Trump Sparks Controversy Linking Tylenol in Pregnancy to Autism
Former President Donald Trump is making headlines again, this time by suggesting that using acetaminophen — better known as Tylenol — during pregnancy could be linked to autism. He announced that the FDA would notify doctors about what he called a “very increased risk” of autism when the drug is taken while expecting. But here’s the problem: decades of research have consistently shown that acetaminophen is the safest over-the-counter pain and fever medication available during pregnancy.
Now, most pregnant people do end up taking acetaminophen at some point. It’s often the only recommended option because alternatives like ibuprofen or aspirin can pose real dangers, including miscarriage or serious complications. Experts have repeatedly stressed that untreated fevers themselves can be risky, potentially leading to birth defects or even pregnancy loss. That’s why the suggestion to simply “tough it out” has been criticized as not only unrealistic but dangerous.
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Trump’s remarks weren’t limited to Tylenol. He also pushed the idea of delaying vaccines for children, including the hepatitis B shot that has nearly eliminated the disease in kids. Once again, scientific evidence stands firmly against these claims. Extensive research has found no connection between vaccines and autism. Nevertheless, Trump praised Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime critic of vaccines, for bringing autism “to the forefront of American politics.”
The medical community has responded with alarm. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists called the announcement irresponsible, pointing out that autism is a complex condition with many causes, often tied to genetics. The Autism Science Foundation said it was “deeply concerned,” noting that no new studies were presented to back up Trump’s warnings. Many experts described the event as confusing, misleading, and potentially harmful to families who depend on clear medical guidance.
Meanwhile, the FDA acknowledged that some studies have shown an association between acetaminophen use and autism, but a causal relationship has never been proven. In fact, large-scale research, including a Swedish study of over two million children, found no link at all. That’s why many scientists recommend what’s already standard practice: use the lowest effective dose, for the shortest time necessary, and only under medical supervision.
Adding another layer to the story, the FDA also announced approval of leucovorin, a folinic acid supplement, as the first recognized treatment for autism. While early studies show it might help some children with certain biological markers, researchers emphasize that autism has no single cause and no one-size-fits-all solution.
In the end, Trump’s comments have reignited long-standing debates, but the science remains clear: acetaminophen is still considered safe during pregnancy when used properly. Doctors stress that misinformation at this level can put both mothers and babies at risk. Autism, they remind us, is far too complex to be blamed on a single medication — and families deserve guidance rooted in evidence, not speculation.
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