September 23, 2025
We expect this to be the first of many announcements over the coming years that deliver actual information to parents on underlining causes of autism and the potential paths to prevention and reversal.
Health and Human Services Secretary Kennedy in a press conference Monday, announcing the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will notify physicians of its recommendation that pregnant women limit the use of Tylenol, or its generic acetaminophen, during pregnancy due to a possible association between acetaminophen and autism.
Why It Matters: Acetaminophen is one of the few over-the-counter pain relievers considered safe during pregnancy. In a new letter, the FDA noted noted that while there is no “causal relationship” between acetaminophen and autism, it recommends minimizing use during pregnancy for “patient safety and prudent medicine.” The announcement drew pushback from medical professionals and organizations. President of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dr. Steven J. Fleischman, said: “Today’s announcement by HHS is not backed by the full body of scientific evidence and dangerously simplifies the many and complex causes of neurologic challenges in children.”
More from the FDA: The FDA also announced the approval of a folate supplement, leucovorin calcium, to treat symptoms of autism “for patients with cerebral folate deficiency (CFD), a neurological condition that affects folate (a vitamin essential for brain health) transport into the brain.” The FDA says many patients with CFD also experience developmental delays and autistic behaviors.
Autism is diagnosed on a spectrum, and according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 31 children have an autism diagnosis.
Learn More:
- Read more from the FDA on the announcement – including cited studies – HERE
- Trump administration recommends pregnant women limit Tylenol, contradicting medical guidance (ABC)
- World health officials counter Trump’s unproven claim of link between Tylenol and autism (NBC)
Watch the full announcement:
Image Credit: White House
by Stephanie Wagner, based in Florida
