Pregnant women were left puzzled after former President Donald Trump issued a dramatic warning about Tylenol, claiming it could be linked to rising autism rates in children.
The comments caused a stir, prompting Dr. Mehmet Oz, CMS Administrator and celebrity physician, to step in with a more measured message.
Pregnant Women Can Use Tylenol When Needed
Dr. Oz told TMZ on Tuesday that pregnant women experiencing high fevers should not shy away from taking the common pain reliever, acetaminophen. “Take it when it’s appropriate,” he said.
“If you have a high fever… the doctor’s almost certainly going to prescribe something, and Tylenol might be one of the things they give.”
He emphasized, however, that low-grade fevers or minor aches are not necessarily reasons to reach for the drug.
While the data isn’t entirely conclusive, Oz said acetaminophen is “probably your best option” during pregnancy when genuinely needed.
Contradicting Trump’s Strong Warnings
Trump had delivered a far sterner message on Monday, insisting that pregnant women should “almost never” take Tylenol.
His vocal warning shocked many and appeared to conflict with the advice of health professionals like Dr. Oz and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
At the White House press conference, Trump admitted he wanted to push the discussion faster than some on his team felt comfortable.
He said, “I hope I didn’t ruin his day—but that’s the way I feel… I’d like to be a little bit more… a little speedier in the process of a recommendation, because there’s no harm going quickly.”
FDA and RFK Jr. Respond to Autism Concerns
Kennedy took a more cautious approach, highlighting ongoing scientific evaluation.
He explained that the FDA is reviewing studies suggesting a potential link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and neurodevelopmental issues, including ADHD and autism.
Kennedy also noted that other studies show no connection, underlining the uncertainty in the research.
He announced that the FDA would issue a notice to physicians about acetaminophen risks during pregnancy and start the process to update safety labeling.
Trump Cites Controversial Comparisons
During the Monday briefing, Trump referenced Cuba and Amish communities as examples of populations with low autism rates, suggesting—without presenting evidence—that their limited access to Tylenol might be a factor.
Experts counter that data is limited or inconclusive. In Cuba, about 1 in 2,500 children are estimated to have autism, while estimates for Amish children, who are often homeschooled, suggest 1 in 271 might have autism, though many cases go undiagnosed.
Confusion Around Tylenol Safety
Acetaminophen has long been considered the go-to fever reducer and pain reliever for pregnant women.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists maintains it’s the safest option.
Yet a resurfaced Tylenol tweet from 2017 stated that the company “does not recommend using any of our products while pregnant,” adding to public uncertainty.
The conflicting statements from Trump, Dr. Oz, RFK Jr., and Tylenol have left many expectant mothers seeking clearer guidance on what is truly safe during pregnancy.