Trump’s Tylenol-Autism Claims Sparked Shifts in Medication Use, Research Shows

Last year, former President Donald Trump promoted unproven links between acetaminophen (Tylenol) and autism, while also advocating for the use of leucovorin as an autism treatment. These claims, widely criticized by medical experts, appear to have influenced patient behavior and prescribing patterns, according to latest research published in The Lancet.

Impact on Tylenol Use During Pregnancy

The study found a 10% decrease in Tylenol orders for pregnant patients (aged 15-44) presenting in emergency departments during the period from late September to early December 2025, following Trump’s public statements. This decrease occurred despite the consensus among medical professionals that acetaminophen is generally safe for use during pregnancy when used as directed. Untreated fevers in pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester, can increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and other complications, according to the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine.

Rise in Leucovorin Prescriptions

Conversely, outpatient prescriptions for leucovorin among children aged 5-17 increased by 71% during the same timeframe. Leucovorin, a derivative of folic acid, is primarily used to reduce the side effects of certain chemotherapy drugs and treat a rare blood disorder. While it has been studied for cerebral folate deficiency and in limited cases for autism, the American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend its routine use for autism, citing limited evidence of benefit. A study evaluating leucovorin as an autism treatment was even retracted from the European Journal of Pediatrics in late January 2026.

Politicization of Healthcare and Patient Decisions

Researchers noted that no similar shifts were observed in comparable medications, suggesting a direct correlation between the former president’s statements and these changes in medication use. Dr. Susan Sirota, a pediatrician in Highland Park, Illinois, emphasized the concerning trend of political messaging impacting healthcare decisions. “It just shows that in our country right now, health care has been politicized in a way that political messages are driving and impacting care — and not always for fine,” she stated.

Background on the Claims

In a September 22, 2025, press conference, President Trump repeatedly urged pregnant women to avoid Tylenol, citing an association with autism. This claim was based on unproven research and contradicted the guidance of major medical organizations. The FactCheck.org investigated these claims and found no established causal link between acetaminophen use and autism. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Had previously promised announcements pinpointing the causes of autism, but the press conference did not identify any definitive causes.

Rising Autism Diagnoses

During the same event, Trump cited statistics indicating a rise in autism diagnoses. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2022 showed that approximately 1 in 31 eight-year-vintage children in the US have been identified with autism. While this rate has increased from 1 in 110 in 2006, experts attribute this rise primarily to changes in diagnostic criteria, increased awareness, and greater access to testing, as noted by the BBC.

Limitations of the Study

The researchers acknowledge that the study had limitations, as it did not capture all Tylenol use by pregnant women due to the widespread over-the-counter availability of the medication. However, the observed shifts in prescribing patterns strongly suggest a link to the White House briefing.

Key Takeaways

• President Trump’s claims about Tylenol and autism were not supported by scientific evidence.
• These claims led to a decrease in Tylenol orders for pregnant women and an increase in leucovorin prescriptions for children.
• The politicization of healthcare can have a detrimental impact on patient decisions and medical practices.
• Medical decisions should be based on evidence-based research and the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals.