US President Donald Trump has sparked widespread debate after warning pregnant women about the alleged dangers of Tylenol, a widely used over-the-counter painkiller. Speaking at a recent press conference, Trump claimed that taking Tylenol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy could increase the risk of autism in children. His remarks immediately drew criticism from medical experts and health organisations, who stress that there is no conclusive evidence linking acetaminophen to autism when used in proper doses. Tylenol is commonly used to relieve pain and reduce fever and has long been considered one of the safest options for expectant mothers.
What is Tylenol
Tylenol is the brand name for acetaminophen, known internationally as paracetamol. It is an over-the-counter medicine used to manage pain, including headaches, muscle aches, menstrual cramps, and fever. Unlike NSAIDs such as aspirin or ibuprofen, Tylenol does not reduce inflammation but works by altering pain perception and regulating body temperature. Because it is gentle on the stomach, it is often recommended for people with ulcers or kidney concerns and is widely used for children to manage fever and discomfort.
Donald Trump’s controversial claims about Tylenol
At the press conference, President Trump stated that Tylenol could be harmful to pregnant women, suggesting a link to autism in children. He also referenced ongoing pharmaceutical developments, including drugs such as leucovorin, which are being studied for autism treatment. His comments provoked immediate backlash from the medical community, who emphasised that acetaminophen remains the safest pain relief option during pregnancy when taken in the recommended doses.
Medical response and research
Major medical associations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, rejected Trump’s claims. Multiple studies, including large-scale research in Sweden, have found no definitive link between prenatal acetaminophen use and autism. Experts stress that observational studies suggesting potential risks cannot establish causation, and proper dosing remains safe for pregnant women. Doctors caution that avoiding Tylenol without alternatives could leave expectant mothers with unmanaged pain or fever, which carries its own risks.
Tylenol’s history and manufacturer
Tylenol was introduced in the 1950s and is now manufactured by Kenvue, a spinoff of Johnson & Johnson. It became a household staple for pain and fever relief and has been widely trusted for decades. While it has faced recalls in the past, its safety profile is well-established, and the manufacturer strongly disputes claims of autism risk.
Political and public reactions
Trump’s remarks have been widely interpreted as a political manoeuvre, aiming to energise certain voter bases, particularly those sceptical of pharmaceutical companies or mainstream health guidance. Experts warn that politicising health claims can spread misinformation and cause unnecessary panic among expectant mothers, while public health officials continue to emphasise evidence-based guidance.