What Is Tylenol, Drug Trump Linked With Autism And Asked Pregnant Women To Avoid

Tylenol represents the brand name for acetaminophen, commonly known as paracetamol in many countries.

President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the US Food and Drug Administration will advise physicians to avoid recommending routine Tylenol usage for pregnant women due to potential links to autism.

"They are strongly recommending that pregnant women restrict Tylenol use unless medically necessary," such as for fever management, "if you cannot endure it," Trump stated during the announcement.

He cautioned that paracetamol (acetaminophen), the primary ingredient in Tylenol, "is not beneficial" for expectant mothers except in cases of medical necessity.

The declaration was made from the Oval Office with Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr present.

Tylenol is marketed acetaminophen, a widely accessible over-the-counter medication functioning as both pain reliever and fever reducer. According to Drugs.com, it effectively alleviates mild to moderate pain conditions including headaches, muscle soreness, arthritis discomfort, menstrual cramps, while also reducing fevers associated with cold or flu symptoms.

For adults and teenagers (13 years and older), medical guidelines recommend 650 mg every 4 hours or 1000 mg every 6 hours. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) advises that daily consumption should not surpass 4000 mg.

Children's dosages vary according to age and weight measurements. Following pediatric dosing instructions or consulting healthcare professionals is essential.

The NCBI notes that individuals with liver conditions or those who regularly consume alcohol should exercise caution when taking acetaminophen and may require reduced dosages.

Tylenol is typically well-tolerated when administered as directed. Some users might experience nausea or stomach discomfort. However, overdosing can result in severe liver damage or failure, potentially becoming fatal. According to Drugs.com, overdose symptoms include appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, sweating, and confusion.

Autism represents a complex neurological developmental condition affecting communication, social interaction, and sensory processing. AFP reports that experts primarily attribute its cause to genetic factors.

Individuals with autism may experience social skills challenges, prefer structured routines, and often develop intense focus on specific interests, according to the National Institute Of Health.

Scientific consensus indicates that autism has multiple origins, and research connecting Tylenol (acetaminophen) to autism remains inconclusive.

Kenvue, Tylenol's manufacturer, stated: "We believe independent, sound science clearly demonstrates that acetaminophen consumption does not cause autism. We strongly reject any contrary suggestions and are deeply concerned about the health risks such claims pose to expectant mothers."

Acetaminophen, Tylenol's active component, is considered the safest pain management option for pregnant women. Without access to it, expectant mothers might need to either tolerate pain and fever or utilize medications carrying higher risks. Alternative pain relievers such as ibuprofen or standard-dose aspirin reportedly may cause serious pregnancy complications.