President Donald Trump claimed on Monday that taking Tylenol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy causes autism in babies. His remarks drew immediate criticism, including from former President Barack Obama, who accused him of “undermining public health.”
Trump suggested that groups who avoid vaccines and pills have “no autism,” then turned to U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to ask if his statement was correct. He further announced that the FDA would issue new guidance for doctors, saying, “Ideally, you don’t take it at all, but if you have to, if you can’t tough it out, you’re going to end up doing it.”
The World Health Organization quickly responded, stressing that there is “currently no conclusive scientific evidence confirming a possible link between autism and use of acetaminophen.” The WHO noted that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects nearly 62 million people worldwide and results from multiple, still-uncertain factors.
Obama addressed the controversy during an event in London, telling an audience of 14,000 that Trump’s comments represented “violence against the truth.” He warned that such claims could harm pregnant women, spread fear among parents, and undermine progress in understanding autism.
He also emphasized that rising autism diagnoses often reflect expanded diagnostic criteria and greater awareness, rather than a true surge in cases. “All of that is violence against the truth,” Obama said.
Tylenol’s manufacturer issued its own statement, calling the medication “one of the most studied in history” and “safe when used as directed by expecting mothers, infants and children.”
The company added that over a decade of research shows no credible evidence linking acetaminophen to autism. Independent health authorities continue to recommend it as a first-line treatment for pain and fever.
Tylenol representatives also reminded patients that untreated high fevers and pain during pregnancy can pose real risks, especially in the first trimester, and encouraged expectant mothers to consult their doctors.
