Tylenol Maker's Shares Tumble Amid Reports of Planned Autism Link Report

Tylenol Parent Kenvue's Shares Plummet Amid Reports of Planned Report Linking Acetaminophen to Autism Shares of Johnson & Johnson subsidiary Kenvue, the manufacturer of Tylenol, plummeted sharply on Thursday following reports that Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s planned report would allegedly link prenatal use of acetaminophen to autism. According to multiple outlets, the forthcoming HHS autism report, led by Kennedy Jr., is expected to suggest a causal relationship between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, current evidence does not support such a claim, and major medical groups continue to recommend prudent acetaminophen use in pregnancy when indicated. "We have seen no credible evidence to support the notion that prenatal acetaminophen use is linked to autism," said Dr. Laura Riley, chair of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' Committee on Practice Bulletins-Obstetrics. "We will continue to follow the science and provide guidance based on the best available evidence." The planned report has sparked concerns among investors and analysts, who are closely watching the stock's performance. Kenvue's shares have been volatile in recent days, with a 5% decline on Thursday alone. "This is not just about the potential impact on Tylenol sales," said analyst David Maris of BMO Capital Markets. "It's also about the broader implications for Johnson & Johnson's reputation and brand value." The controversy surrounding Kennedy Jr.'s report has raised questions about the role of science in public health policy. While some have praised Kennedy Jr.'s efforts to shed light on potential links between environmental factors and autism, others have criticized his approach as alarmist and lacking in scientific rigor. "We need to be careful not to jump to conclusions based on incomplete or inconclusive data," said Dr. Paul Offit, a pediatrician and expert on vaccine safety. "We must rely on the best available evidence and follow the science." As the situation continues to unfold, investors will be closely watching Kenvue's stock performance and any further developments related to Kennedy Jr.'s report. Background: Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the son of former Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, has been a vocal advocate for environmental causes and vaccine safety. His planned report on autism is part of a broader effort by HHS to examine potential links between environmental factors and ASD. Market Impact: Kenvue's shares have been volatile in recent days, with a 5% decline on Thursday alone. The company's market value has also taken a hit, with some analysts estimating losses in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Next Developments: The release date for Kennedy Jr.'s report is not yet clear, but it is expected to be published soon. Investors and analysts will continue to monitor Kenvue's stock performance and any further developments related to the report. *Reporting by Fortune.*