What to know about RFK Jr.'s effort to link Tylenol and autism
The White House is expected make an announcement Monday on its efforts to identify the cause of autism and reportedly will link the neurological condition to acetaminophen, the common over-the-counter pain reliever.
According to multiple reports, the announcement is expected to link the development of autism to pregnant women's use of acetaminophen, which is the primary ingredient in Tylenol.
Pregnant women already have few safe options for pain relief, and an announcement touting a link to autism could put them in a difficult position. Ibuprofen and the brand-name Advil are already discouraged due to the risks of miscarriage and birth defects.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists said in a statement that “acetaminophen remains a safe, trusted option for pain relief during pregnancy.”
“Despite recent unfounded claims, there’s no clear evidence linking prudent use to issues with fetal development," it added.
President Trump previewed the announcement, expected during a 4 p.m. EDT event, at Sunday’s memorial service for Charlie Kirk.
“I think you’re going to find it to be amazing,” Trump said. “I think we found an answer to autism.” He didn’t provide other details, adding only that he expects it to be “one of the most important news conferences I’ll ever have.”
Efforts to identify the cause of autism have been a top priority for Trump, who tasked top health officials with finding an answer. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. vowed to unveil the cause of the “autism epidemic” by September of this year.
The © The Hill
