Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, is expected to release a controversial report at the end of September 2025, linking the use of Tylenol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy to autism in children. This announcement has caused a public stir and impacted the stock market.
🔬 Research and Medical Perspectives
Tylenol, whose main ingredient is acetaminophen, has long been recommended by major health organizations such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) as a safe option during pregnancy to relieve pain and reduce fever. However, some recent studies have suggested a potential link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism or ADHD in children. A 2024 study in Sweden involving over 2 million children found no such link, indicating that further research is needed to determine the specific cause.
🏛️ Reactions from Organizations and Manufacturers
Kenvue, the company that produces Tylenol, has denied these claims, asserting that there is no scientific evidence proving a causal relationship between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism. The company emphasized that previous studies have been reviewed by the FDA and other health organizations, which found no such link.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has stated that the current claims are “speculative” and emphasized that it will rely on “gold-standard science” to investigate the causes of rising autism rates in the U.S.
📉 Impact on the Market
Following the announcement of Kennedy’s report, Kenvue’s stock dropped sharply, at one point falling by as much as 16%. Analysts suggested that this may have been an overreaction, as previous lawsuits related to this issue were dismissed.
🧠 Call for Further Research
Medical experts recommend that more research is needed to clearly determine any connection between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and the risk of autism. In the meantime, pregnant women are advised to consult their doctors before taking any medication, including Tylenol.