Scientists Dismiss Trump's Tylenol-Autism Link: Fever Risk Looms Larger for Pregnant Women

Scientists Rebuke Trump's Tylenol-Autism Claim, Stress Fever is Bigger Danger in Pregnancy A recent White House event sparked controversy when President Donald Trump linked acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, to autism and advised pregnant women to avoid the medication. However, scientists and medical experts swiftly rebuked the claim, citing decades of evidence that fever poses a greater risk during pregnancy. At the September 22, 2025, event, Trump stated that acetaminophen is "linked" to autism and encouraged pregnant women to "tough out fevers." The remarks were made alongside Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime critic of mainstream medicine. However, experts argue that this advice misrepresents the science. Mady Hornig, a New York physician-scientist who has studied pregnancy-related risk factors for autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder for 25 years, said, "The White House message is not supported by the evidence. Decades of research have shown that fever in early pregnancy can increase the risk of autism and other developmental disorders." Hornig's comments are echoed by numerous studies published in reputable scientific journals. A 2019 meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found no association between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism spectrum disorder. The controversy surrounding Trump's statement highlights the importance of evidence-based medicine and the need for policymakers to consult with experts before making public health recommendations. "As a physician, I can tell you that fever is a much greater concern than acetaminophen," said Dr. Hornig. "Pregnant women should be aware of the risks associated with untreated fevers, but they should not avoid taking necessary medication." The pharmaceutical industry has also weighed in on the issue. A spokesperson for Johnson & Johnson, the manufacturer of Tylenol, stated that "the safety and efficacy of acetaminophen have been extensively studied and proven through decades of research." The company emphasized that pregnant women should consult with their healthcare providers before taking any medication. The White House event was part of a broader effort to address childhood health issues. However, the controversy surrounding Trump's statement has sparked concerns about the potential impact on public health policy. As one expert noted, "Policymakers must be cautious not to spread misinformation that could have serious consequences for pregnant women and their babies." In response to the backlash, White House officials have maintained that Trump's comments were intended to encourage pregnant women to explore alternative pain relief options. However, experts argue that this approach is misguided and may lead to unnecessary risks. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the scientific community will continue to scrutinize public health recommendations and ensure that they are grounded in evidence-based research. *Reporting by Fortune.*