Photo: JASPER JACOBS / AFP / Getty Images
Autism Speaks, a leading autism research and awareness organization, has advised pregnant women to consult with their doctors before considering new therapies. This statement follows President Donald Trump's announcement on Monday that linked the use of Tylenol during pregnancy to an increased risk of autism. Autism Speaks emphasized that while there are possible associations, no conclusive evidence exists to support this claim.
President Trump, alongside U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., announced new initiatives to address the autism spectrum disorder epidemic, which has increased by nearly 400% since 2000. The initiatives include FDA actions on leucovorin, a drug that shows promise in treating speech-related deficits associated with autism, and a review of acetaminophen (Tylenol) use during pregnancy. The FDA plans to update safety labels for acetaminophen and encourage doctors to prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration when necessary.
Despite the announcement, experts caution that the science connecting Tylenol to autism is not settled. The FDA has stated that while there is an association described in some studies, a causal relationship has not been established. The drug manufacturer Kenvue strongly disagrees with the claim that acetaminophen causes autism, emphasizing its safety as a pain reliever during pregnancy.
Autism Speaks also noted the potential of leucovorin, which the FDA has approved for treating autism symptoms, but highlighted the need for more clinical trials to confirm its effectiveness. The organization stressed that leucovorin is not a cure and should be used under medical supervision.
Photo Credit: Getty Images