Facebook Twitter Tumblr Close Skip to main content
A Project of The Annenberg Public Policy Center

Issues: acetaminophen

The Facts Behind Claims on Autism, Tylenol and Folate

The Facts Behind Claims on Autism, Tylenol and Folate
September 17, 2025

News reports have indicated Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. may point to Tylenol and folate deficiency in his promised announcement on the causes of autism. But neither Tylenol nor folate deficiency has been shown to cause autism. Some evidence has pointed away from Tylenol as a risk factor.

Limited Evidence of a Link Between Acetaminophen and Autism or ADHD

Limited Evidence of a Link Between Acetaminophen and Autism or ADHD
February 22, 2023

Q: Is the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy linked to autism or ADHD?

A: There is currently no strong evidence that acetaminophen use during pregnancy causes autism or ADHD in children. Expert groups continue to recommend use of the drug during pregnancy when necessary and in consultation with a doctor.