U.S. Government Considers Linking Tylenol to Autism Risks

In a recent development, officials in the Trump administration are reportedly preparing to connect the active ingredient in Tylenol, known as acetaminophen, with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). According to sources cited by the Washington Post, the administration intends to issue warnings to pregnant women advising against the use of Tylenol unless necessary for fever management. This move follows earlier investigations and debates about a potential link between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and developmental conditions in children.

Tylenol is among the most widely used over-the-counter pain relievers globally, and a shift in official stance could significantly impact public health guidance. The administration's announcement coincides with President Donald Trump stating he would hold a major news conference concerning autism, claiming progress toward understanding the disorder.

Meanwhile, the plan also includes promoting another drug, leucovorin, as a possible treatment for autism. Leucovorin, a medication primarily used in cancer therapy, has been explored for its potential benefits in neurological development.

It is important to note that previous scientific investigations have yielded mixed results. In late 2023, a U.S. federal judge dismissed over 400 lawsuits claiming that prenatal Tylenol exposure caused autism, citing flawed scientific evidence. Additionally, a large-scale Swedish study published in 2024 found no link between maternal acetaminophen use during pregnancy and increased autism risk, based on data from nearly 2.5 million siblings.

Despite this, the upcoming announcement suggests a shift towards a more cautionary approach, echoing ongoing debates and research in this complex area. The situation underscores the importance of ongoing scientific evaluation to determine the safety of common medications during pregnancy.

For further details, visit source.