BREAKING: The White House has just resurrected a 2017 tweet from Tylenol to back former President Donald Trump’s controversial claims linking Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism. On Wednesday, an unnamed administration official shared the tweet, which originally stated, “We actually don’t recommend using any of our products while pregnant.” This momentous post was accompanied by a photo of Trump sporting a red cap emblazoned with the phrase, “Trump was right about everything.”
This announcement has ignited a firestorm across social media, particularly within MAGA circles, where supporters are claiming this provides validation for Trump’s alarming assertion that acetaminophen is connected to rising autism rates. Conservative commentator Joey Mannarino seized the opportunity, urging, “Liberal women, please take as many Tylenols during pregnancy as possible. Prove Trump wrong, ok?”
However, critical voices are rapidly emerging, highlighting that numerous other posts from Tylenol’s X account contradict this narrative. In fact, Tylenol has previously confirmed that using the medication during pregnancy is generally safe, advising that individuals consult their doctors before use. “Thanks for the shout out Carrie! Just make sure to talk to your doctor before taking Tylenol while you’re pregnant,” the company responded to a user in 2017.
Trump’s remarks came during a press conference on October 10, 2023, where he emphatically urged expectant mothers to avoid Tylenol, stating, “With Tylenol, don’t take it. Don’t take it.” This declaration has drawn immediate backlash from experts, including U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, who tweeted, “The preponderance of evidence shows that this is not the case.”
Adding to the controversy, Ann Bauer, a researcher studying Tylenol and autism, expressed her dismay over Trump’s misrepresentation of her work, stating she felt “sick to my stomach” seeing her research linked to discredited theories. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has consistently advocated for Tylenol as one of the safest pain relievers for pregnant women, underscoring the growing concern that misinformation could endanger public health.
The manufacturer of Tylenol, Kenvue, has categorically rejected any claims suggesting a link between acetaminophen and autism, asserting, “We strongly disagree with any suggestion otherwise.”
As this situation unfolds, it raises critical questions about the implications of such statements on public health policy and the broader discourse surrounding medication safety during pregnancy. Experts are calling for transparency and accountability from health officials regarding any data supporting Trump’s claims.
WHAT’S NEXT: The situation is developing rapidly, and further responses from health authorities are anticipated. Observers are urged to stay informed, as the conversation surrounding this contentious issue evolves.
This latest incident serves as a stark reminder of the profound impact that public statements can have on health behaviors and perceptions. The implications for expectant mothers are significant, and the urgency to clarify these claims cannot be overstated.
