Medical experts respond to claims that link Tylenol to Autism and ADHD

ATLANTA, Ga. (WRBL) — Reaction is pouring in from medical experts and federal agencies after recent claims connecting Tylenol use during pregnancy to a higher risk of autism and ADHD.

Last month, President Trump and federal health officials cited studies suggesting a link between acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol) and developmental disorders in children — despite years of research indicating the medication is safe for pregnant women.

Doctors Call Claims “Irresponsible”

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) pushed back strongly, calling the claims “concerning” and “irresponsible.”
The group reaffirmed that Tylenol remains one of the few safe options for managing pain and fever during pregnancy.

“There’s been a lot of confusion about Tylenol and autism,” said Dr. Cecil Bennet with Newnan Family Care. “Multiple studies involving thousands of children show no causative link between acetaminophen and autism.”

Dr. Bennet added that untreated fever during pregnancy can be far more dangerous — potentially leading to premature birth, neurological harm, or even sepsis in mothers.

FDA Urges Caution, But Not Panic

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a letter advising clinicians to “minimize the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy for routine low-grade fevers.”
However, the agency acknowledged that Tylenol remains the safest over-the-counter pain reliever for expectant mothers, noting that alternatives like aspirin and ibuprofen can cause harm to the fetus.

“In prudent medicine, we recommend moderation — not avoidance,” wrote Dr. Martin Makary, Commissioner of Food and Drugs.

Pediatricians Emphasize Proper Use

The American Academy of Pediatrics also weighed in, reminding parents and caregivers to follow dosing instructions carefully and consult their doctors before giving medications to children.

“Acetaminophen is essential to treat pain and fever in pregnant patients,” said Dr. J. Routt Reigart, Chair of the AAP Committee on Drugs. “The conditions it treats are often more dangerous than any theoretical risks.”

Ongoing Research

While some studies have noted an association between long-term acetaminophen use and neurological disorders, experts stress that no direct cause-and-effect relationship has been established.

Both the CDC and Georgia Department of Public Health have not yet issued updated guidance on the use of Tylenol during pregnancy.

By the Numbers

• Autism diagnoses have reportedly increased 400% since 2000, now affecting 1 in 31 U.S. children, according to the Trump administration.
• The rise, however, is also attributed to broader diagnostic criteria and increased awareness among healthcare professionals.

Bottom Line

Doctors urge pregnant women not to panic — and to consult their healthcare providers before stopping or changing any medication routine.

“The benefits of controlling fever and pain far outweigh any unproven risks,” Dr. Bennet said.