In a recent announcement, President Donald Trump stated that U.S. doctors will soon be advised against prescribing Tylenol (acetaminophen) to pregnant women due to a controversial link between the medication and autism. Trump, speaking beside Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., claimed that the pain reliever is “not good” for expectant mothers and should only be used in cases of extreme fever.

This assertion comes amid ongoing debates regarding the safety of Tylenol during pregnancy. While some studies suggest a potential association with autism, findings remain inconsistent and inconclusive. Tylenol’s manufacturer, Kenvue, defended the drug, stating that sound science supports its safety for pregnant women and highlights the risks associated with alternatives.

Kennedy noted that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plans to issue a notice regarding this potential risk and will consider updating safety labels for Tylenol. He also revealed plans to approve Leucovorin, traditionally used to protect cancer patients, as a treatment for children with autism, based on preliminary research indicating potential benefits.

Medical experts have criticized the announcement as lacking substantial scientific backing and argued that Tylenol remains one of the few safe pain relief options for pregnant women. They emphasize that the causes of autism are complex and not solely attributable to any single factor, including medication use during pregnancy.



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