Kenvue, the company behind Tylenol, has strongly rejected recent assertions by the Trump administration suggesting a link between use of the painkiller during pregnancy and autism in children.
In a public statement, Kenvue said it believes “independent, sound science” continues to show there is no causal connection, labeling the suggestion otherwise as unsupported. The company emphasized that acetaminophen remains “the safest pain reliever option for pregnant women” when used appropriately.
The dispute emerged after health officials said the FDA will issue new guidance for doctors and begin processes to update product labeling, citing studies that report possible neurological risks. Kenvue expressed concern that these measures could discourage pregnant women from using a medication long regarded as safe, potentially causing harm from untreated illnesses like fevers.
Meanwhile, medical experts and regulatory bodies have pointed out that the body of research on the subject contains mixed results, and many studies do not establish a definitive link. They warn that more rigorous investigation is needed before altering existing health guidance.
