Autism rates in the U.S. have surged by 380 percent since 2000, now affecting one in 31 children. Following former President Donald Trump’s remarks suggesting Tylenol (acetaminophen) could play a role, health experts are urging calm and clarity.
Doctors emphasize that while some studies suggest a connection between Tylenol use during pregnancy and autism or ADHD, there’s no proven cause-and-effect link. “We must share findings with honesty and context,” said Dr. Nechama Sorscher, a pediatric neuropsychologist. “Pregnancy is hard enough without fearmongering.”
Other common drugs—like antidepressants, epilepsy medication, and antibiotics—have also been studied for possible connections to autism, though results remain inconclusive. Experts warn against stopping prescribed medications without medical advice, noting that untreated health conditions can harm both mother and baby.
“The health of the mother directly affects the baby,” said Dr. Gail Saltz of Weill Cornell Medical College. Scientists continue to stress that autism likely results from many factors, not one single cause. The message remains clear: seek balance, not panic, when it comes to medical decisions during pregnancy.
