A Link Between Tylenol and Autism?

Although this happened a month ago, I thought it was important to address President Trump's claim that pregnant women taking acetaminophen (Tylenol^®), causes children to become autistic. For those that don’t know, Autism Spectrum Disorder, which is usually just called Autism, is a type of neurodivergence where people interact with others in different ways because their brain works in a distinct way than that of a neurotypical person. Possible identifiers of people who have Autism include: rigidity in their routines, focusing on very specific topics, and an inability to understand certain social norms. Going back to President Trump, his message spread across the country like wildfire and now has left many women worried that they may inadvertently give this condition to their children. However, contrary to President Trump’s claim, research results to date do not show a link between the two. Typically, many pregnant women take Tylenol to stop or ease their pains and high fevers, both of which can impact the fetus if they persist. There are always side effects of any medicine (especially if overconsumed), however it is important to follow the dosage given on the label or by the medical provider.

Works Cited

"Autism." Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/autism. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.

Barlow, Rich. "BU Autism Expert Says Research Hasn't Confirmed Tylenol Link." The Brink, Boston University, 25 Sept. 2025, www.bu.edu/articles/2025/bu-autism-expert-says-research-hasnt-confirmed-tylenol-link/. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.

Ghorayshi, Azeen. "Trump Issues Warning Based on Unproven Link Between Tylenol and Autism." New York Times, 22 Sept. 2025, www.nytimes.com/2025/09/22/health/kennedy-autism-tylenol-trump.html?searchResultPosition=1. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.