President Donald Trump asserted that taking Tylenol, the U.S. version of paracetamol, during pregnancy causes autism in babies, prompting former President Barack Obama to criticize him for “undermining public health” with his statement. Obama took to a public platform to challenge Trump’s assertion, arguing that the claim lacked scientific backing and could mislead pregnant women.

Trump claimed, “Certain groups who avoid vaccines and pills have no autism,” and directed the question to U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., asking, “Is that a correct statement?” He also announced plans for the FDA to issue new guidance for doctors across the country. This came despite the World Health Organization emphasizing that there is “currently no conclusive scientific evidence confirming a possible link between autism and the use of acetaminophen.”

Obama criticized Trump during a conversation with historian David Olusoga at London’s O2 Arena, accusing him of “violence against the truth.” He highlighted the public health risks of Trump’s statements, noting that the autism spectrum is broad and that reported increases in diagnoses may reflect expanded diagnostic criteria rather than actual rising rates.

Tylenol representatives responded to Trump’s remarks, stating the medication is “one of the most studied in history” and “safe when used as directed by pregnant women, infants, and children.” They reiterated that “over a decade of rigorous research, endorsed by leading medical professionals, confirms there is no credible evidence linking acetaminophen to autism.” The company added that acetaminophen is globally recommended as a first-line treatment for pain and fever, following public health guidelines and product labeling. They emphasized that high fevers and pain during pregnancy, if untreated, pose recognized risks, particularly in the first trimester, and urged consultation with doctors. “We prioritize science as the core of how we provide care, and that will never change,” they concluded.