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President Donald Trump on Monday advised pregnant women to avoid taking Tylenol, citing a new federal report that suggests acetaminophen use during pregnancy may be linked to higher autism rates among children.
The remarks followed a Health and Human Services report highlighting concerns about the widespread use of the drug. Tylenol and its generic versions are the most common pain and fever relievers recommended for pregnant women, who are already warned against ibuprofen due to risks of miscarriage and birth defects.
“Taking Tylenol is not good,” Trump said during a White House event. “All pregnant women should talk to their doctors about limiting the use of this medication while pregnant.”
Trump said the Food and Drug Administration would notify doctors that acetaminophen use “can be associated” with increased autism risk.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported earlier this year that 1 in 31 American 8-year-olds were diagnosed with autism in 2022, compared with 1 in 150 in 2000.
According to Politico, the FDA is also preparing to authorize the use of leucovorin, a generic drug typically prescribed for cancer and anemia, to treat children with “cerebral folate deficiency and autistic symptoms.”
The Trump administration is allocating $50 million toward autism research, noting that past studies have focused primarily on genetics rather than other potential causes.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt also commented on concerns related to autism and pregnancy on Tuesday.
“The Trump Administration does not believe popping more pills is always the answer for better health. There is mounting evidence finding a connection between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism — and that’s why the Administration is courageously issuing this new health guidance,” she stated.
“Additionally, the Trump Administration is approving a new treatment option that has been found to improve some autism symptoms. President Trump pledged to address America’s skyrocketing rates of autism, and his team is deploying Gold Standard Science to deliver on this pledge. We will not be deterred in these efforts as we know millions across America are grateful,” Leavitt added.