On September 22, during a press conference, U.S. President Donald Trump made a controversial statement linking the use of the widely used over-the-counter pain medication Tylenol with the development of autism in children when taken during pregnancy. This assertion has sparked significant debate, as numerous medical professionals and researchers strongly dispute the claim.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently conducted a review regarding the use of leucovorin in patients diagnosed with a rare metabolic disorder known as cerebral folate deficiency. This condition can lead to various neurological symptoms commonly associated with autism. In light of this review, President Trump stated that the FDA would be notifying healthcare providers about a potential association between Tylenol use during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism, although he did not provide supporting evidence for his claim.
In response to Trump's comments, researchers and medical experts have reiterated that there is currently no concrete evidence establishing a direct link between the use of Tylenol and autism. Experts emphasize that while leucovorin has shown some potential benefits in small-scale trials, particularly for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, further extensive and randomized trials are necessary to draw any definitive conclusions.
President Trump expressed his concerns regarding the use of Tylenol, stating, "Taking Tylenol is not good. I'll say it. Not good." He advised against administering the medication to children after vaccinations, suggesting that it could have detrimental effects. However, it is important to note that health authorities recommend consulting with a healthcare professional for guidance on medication use during pregnancy and childhood.
The discussion surrounding Tylenol and its potential effects on autism remains contentious. As public interest in this topic grows, it is crucial for individuals to seek information from reliable sources and consult healthcare providers for personalized medical advice. Ongoing research and larger clinical trials will be essential in clarifying any potential risks associated with over-the-counter medications during pregnancy.
Reporting by Michael Erman in New York, Julie Steenhuysen in Chicago, and Ahmed Aboulenein in Washington; additional reporting by Nandita Bose, Jeff Mason, and Trevor Hunnicutt in Washington, Nancy Lapid in Tucson, and Sriparna Roy in Bengaluru; editing by Caroline Humer.
