"President Donald Trump announced Monday that the US Food and Drug Administration will be notifying physicians that the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy “can be associated with a very increased risk of autism,” despite decades of evidence that it’s safe.
“They are strongly recommending that women limit Tylenol use during pregnancy unless medically necessary,” such as to treat fever, “if you can’t tough it out,” Trump said.
Experts say autism is caused by multiple factors, and the science concerning the connection between Tylenol use during pregnancy and autism is not settled.
Acetaminophen has been considered the only safe over-the-counter option for pain or fever for pregnant people. Other common pain relief options like ibuprofen or regular-dose aspirin can increase the risk of serious complications during pregnancy. Not treating a fever can also be dangerous for both the fetus and the pregnant person."
Jen Christensen, Katherine Dillinger, and Meg Tirrell report for CNN September 22, 2025.
SEE ALSO:
"As Trump Ties Tylenol To Autism, Doctors Raise Alarms" (Washington Post)
"Trump Gave Medical Advice About Tylenol. Here’s What Medical Experts Say." (Washington Post)
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