Trump’s Remarks on Autism, Vaccines, and Tylenol Spark Backlash from Health Experts

Washington, D.C. – US President Donald Trump on Monday made controversial remarks linking childhood vaccines and the use of Tylenol during pregnancy to autism, a claim that medical experts say is not supported by scientific evidence.

Trump’s Statement at the White House

Speaking at a press conference alongside Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump advised pregnant women to avoid Tylenol and suggested delaying or separating certain childhood vaccines. He also mentioned leucovorin, a form of folic acid, as a possible treatment for autism symptoms.

“I want to say it like it is, don’t take Tylenol. Don’t take it,” Trump said. He further questioned the timing and combination of vaccines given to children.

Medical Community Responds Strongly

The president’s remarks were quickly rejected by major health organizations. The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Coalition of Autism Scientists stressed that extensive research shows acetaminophen (Tylenol’s active ingredient) is safe when used appropriately during pregnancy.

“There is no scientific evidence that Tylenol causes autism or that leucovorin cures it,” the Coalition said in a statement.

Kenvue, the maker of Tylenol, also issued a response:

“Independent, sound science clearly shows that taking acetaminophen does not cause autism. We strongly disagree with any suggestion otherwise.”

Impact on Kenvue Shares

Kenvue’s stock initially dropped more than 7% on Monday but later recovered 5% in after-hours trading. The stock, however, remains down 14% since early September, following speculation about a possible link between acetaminophen and autism.

What Research Actually Shows

Scientific studies have consistently found no causal link between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and autism.

A 2024 Swedish study of 2.5 million children found no evidence of increased autism risk.
A 2025 review of 46 studies did note an association between prenatal exposure and certain neurodevelopmental outcomes, but researchers emphasized that the findings do not prove causation.

Experts advise that pregnant women may continue to use acetaminophen when necessary, at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration, a recommendation also supported by the FDA.

Vaccine Safety Reaffirmed

Trump’s remarks also revived the long-debunked theory linking vaccines to autism. Medical experts highlighted that vaccines are safe and effective, with UNICEF estimating that vaccines have saved more than 150 million lives in the last 50 years.

Next Steps from the Administration

The Trump administration directed the FDA to explore labeling changes for Tylenol and its generic versions, while also considering Medicaid coverage of leucovorin for autism-related symptoms.

However, researchers stress that while leucovorin has shown limited promise in small studies, large-scale clinical trials are still needed before it can be considered a proven treatment.

Conclusion

Health experts warn that the president’s remarks risk spreading confusion among parents and expectant mothers. As Dr. Diana Schendel of the Drexel Autism Institute noted:

“Without clear scientific evidence, such announcements become reckless and potentially harmful.”