Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) is seemingly on a crusade against autism in America. With one in 31 children diagnosed, he is not without reason. However, his focus sometimes seems to be on items that are based on underdeveloped science or studies that have simply been proven wrong. The latest in this is the idea that prenatal Tylenol use causes autism in children. Let’s look at where this theory comes from and clarify what is true and what you don’t need to worry about.
The Tylenol-Autism Link: Separating Fact from Expectation
An anticipated report from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), spearheaded by RFK Jr, is expected to propose a link between the prenatal use of Tylenol (the brand name from Johnson & Johnson for acetaminophen) and an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This has brought renewed attention to a topic long debated in some circles. However, a look at the science behind this claim reveals a more nuanced picture.
Where Does the Idea Come From?
The idea that acetaminophen might be linked to autism gained prominence after various observational studies showed an association. It is important to distinguish here that association and causation are not the same thing. These studies typically found that children of mothers who reported taking acetaminophen during pregnancy had a slightly higher chance of being diagnosed with ASD or ADHD. The forthcoming HHS report will likely cite these types of studies as a basis for its findings.
What Does the Science Actually Say?
While initial observational studies have shown a correlation, the more rigorous scientific analysis provides a different conclusion. A major Swedish cohort study published in JAMA Pediatrics in 2024 is a key piece of research on this topic. It found a modest increase in the risk of ASD and ADHD among children whose mothers frequently used acetaminophen during pregnancy.
However, the study also included a sibling-controlled analysis, which is considered to be a more reliable method for this type of research. In this analysis, researchers compared siblings where one was exposed to prenatal acetaminophen and the other was not. This method helps to control for genetic, familial, and environmental factors that could be the real cause of the association. The sibling-controlled analysis found no significant link between prenatal acetaminophen use and the risk of ASD, ADHD, or intellectual disability. This strongly suggests that other factors shared within families – and not acetaminophen itself – are responsible for the observed association in the broader population.
Read More: Researchers Identify Four Distinct Autism Subtypes in Study of 5,000 Kids
So, Is It Actually True?
Based on the most robust scientific evidence available, in particular the sibling-controlled research, there is no confirmed causal link between prenatal Tylenol use and autism. While a correlation has been observed in some studies, this appears to be due to confounding factors, not the medication itself. For this reason, medical and scientific organizations have not changed their guidance. It remains that acetaminophen is a safe and effective option for pain relief during pregnancy when used as directed and under the guidance of an obstetrician.
Should Pregnant Women Be Concerned?
In short, no – this should not overly worry anyone who currently is or is looking to become pregnant. Again, under the guidance of your doctor, acetaminophen can be an effective way to manage pain. Of course, taking too much acetaminophen or any medication can have side effects – not just for your developing baby, but for you, as well. Taking acetaminophen in large quantities or frequently can be very hard on your liver, among other things. If you are struggling with pain, speak to your doctor about all of your options. Depending on what kind of pain you are experiencing and where, there could be other options besides medications to relieve that pain. This goes for everyone, not just expecting mothers. It is always best to seek out holistic, natural solutions to either aid or complement medically advised medications or perhaps negate the need for them at all.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.
Read More: RFK Jr. Demanded a Vaccine Study Be Retracted. The Journal Said No.