Trump’s Tylenol-Autism Claim Sparks Backlash
- Yoohwa Roslie Hong
- Oct 1
- 1 min read
On September 23, 2025, President Donald Trump claimed that taking Tylenol (paracetamol) during pregnancy may be linked to autism. He urged pregnant women to avoid the pain reliever except in cases of extreme fever, calling the drug “no good.”
Trump’s statement appears to be based on several observational studies suggesting a possible association between frequent prenatal acetaminophen use and certain neurodevelopmental issues in children. These studies do not prove causation, but they have been cited by some as a reason for caution during pregnancy.
Despite the robust announcement from Donald Trump, medical experts quickly pushed back and refuted his statement. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists stressed there is no solid scientific evidence linking acetaminophen (Tylenol’s active ingredient) to autism. UK health officials also emphasized that paracetamol remains the safest painkiller for pregnant women when used correctly.
Furthermore, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) took a more cautious line than Trump, acknowledging studies that describe an association but clarifying that no causal link has been proven. Large-scale research has produced mixed results: some studies suggest a possible connection, while others, including a Swedish study of 2.4 million children, found none.
Autism researchers widely agree the condition is caused by a complex mix of genetic and environmental factors, not a single drug. Advocacy groups also criticized Trump’s comments as irresponsible and harmful, saying they risk spreading fear and misinformation.
For now, health authorities continue to recommend Tylenol as the safest option for pain and fever during pregnancy.
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