President Trump declared that acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol (paracetamol), may increase the risk of autism during pregnancy, and promoted the use of leucovorin as an experimental treatment. Researchers and medical associations emphasize: There is no causal evidence, Tylenol is considered safe in controlled doses, and treatment with leucovorin is still preliminary and requires medical supervision
On September 22, 2025, the White House announced that there was a possible link between the use of Tylenol (acetaminophen) (in Israel, Dexmol) in early pregnancy and autism, and that the drug Leucovorin (Folic acid) will get a regulatory push as a potential treatment for certain symptoms in children on the spectrum. The move is sparking fierce controversy in the medical community, which warns against politicizing science and jumping to conclusions. (The Washington Post)
What does the government claim?
At a press conference, President Trump said that Tylenol should be avoided in early pregnancy (except for high fevers), and that the FDA would update the warning labels. At the same time, leucovorin was presented as a promising treatment for improving communication and language in some children with autism; the possibility of expanding its access through federal programs was also raised.
What does science say so far?
Acetaminophen in pregnancy and autism
- Population studies have sometimes found association There is a statistical link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and a higher risk of autism or ADHD, including a review/evaluation of the evidence published in the summer of 2025 (Harvard, Mount Sinai). However, the authors themselves emphasize that there is no proof of causality and recommend caution – not a blanket ban. (Mount Sinai Health System)
- On the other hand, a large-scale sibling study in Sweden (JAMA, 2024) found no increased risk when controlling for family biases (Sibling Controls), suggesting that the associations seen in simpler models were due to confounding. (JAMA Network)
Position of professional unions (as of the time of the announcement)
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) continues to state that acetaminophen is a major pain reliever. And sure During pregnancy, when taken as needed, in low doses and for a short period of time, and in consultation with a doctor—especially to reduce fever, which if left untreated may harm the fetus. (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists)
Leucovorin (folinic acid) in autism
- There are preliminary studies—including a randomized, double-blind trial—that have shown Measurable improvement in communication and language In a subset of children with autism, especially when markers of folate metabolism disorder/folate receptor antibodies (FRAA) are present. However, the samples are small and larger studies are needed to replicate the results. (PubMed)
- Federal officials promoting the move also admit that it is a treatment For symptoms and not a “cure for autism,” and that the evidence is not yet conclusive. (Politico)
Criticism and controversy
Doctors, scientists, and advocacy groups warn against politicizing the debate, simplistic messages to the public, and creating unnecessary avoidance of pain/fever treatment in pregnancy. There is also concern about hasty adoption of leucovorin without proper diagnosis and medical follow-up.
What does it mean in practice — current medical practices?
What is said here Not a substitute for personal medical adviceA gynecologist or pediatrician should be consulted.
For pregnant women
- Pain/Fever: If required—acetaminophen remains an acceptable first line: The lowest effective dose And toThe shortest timeAfter talking to your doctor, a high fever during pregnancy itself may be harmful to the fetus, so it is usually It needs to be taken care of.system. (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists)
- Total avoidance? As of today, there is no causal proof, and therefore there is no general recommendation to completely avoid acetaminophen. It is also recommended to avoid frequent/prolonged use without a clear indication and to inform the doctor of any use. (JAMA Network)
- Other medications: NSAIDs (ibuprofen and its derivatives) are restricted in the later stages of pregnancy; do not automatically replace with another treatment without medical guidance. (General principle; follow your doctor's instructions.)
For parents of children on the spectrum considering leucovorin
- Who this may be suitable for: Especially for children with evidence of a folate pathway problem (e.g., FRAA or Cerebral Folate Deficiency). Relevant biochemical/immunological evaluation may assist in patient selection. (Politico)
- What to expect: Some studies have shown improvement in language/communication; this is not a “cure” for autism. Close medical monitoring, dosage adjustment, and documentation of side effects are required. (PubMed)
- Don't start alone: Treatment should not be initiated without a pediatrician/developmental neurologist who is familiar with the literature and can assess suitability, benefits, and risks.
The main line of treatment remains multi-systemic:
Behavioral and educational interventions (ABA/ESDM and others), occupational therapy, speech therapy, family support—remain the basis of treatment, with secondary pharmacological interventions being considered depending on the child's characteristics. (This is the broad consensus today.)
The bottom line
- The link between acetaminophen in pregnancy and autism Not proven to be causal, and in controlled sibling studies, no signal of increased risk was found. Professional guidelines continue to allow cautious and measured use—especially for fever reduction. (JAMA Network)
- Leucovorin presents Early promise certain subgroups, but it Not yet a proven treatment for all. Treatment decisions should be made in the clinic, not at a press conference. (PubMed)
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