By Ashley LutzExecutive Director, Editorial GrowthDown Arrow Button IconBy Ashley LutzExecutive Director, Editorial GrowthDown Arrow Button IconSeptember 8, 2025, 4:11 PM ETHHS Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr.Andrew Harnik/Getty ImagesHealth and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is preparing a report that will allegedly claim a link between prenatal Tylenol (acetaminophen) use and autism, but current evidence does not support a causal relationship, and major medical groups continue to recommend prudent acetaminophen use in pregnancy when indicated; meanwhile, Tylenol parent Kenvue’s shares sold off sharply following the reports and remain volatile.
What’s in the planned report
Multiple outlets report that the forthcoming HHS autism report led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is expected to suggest that acetaminophen use in pregnancy is linked to autism and to highlight low folate levels, while pointing to folinic acid (leucovorin) as a potential way to reduce symptoms for some individuals with autism, according to people familiar with the draft cited by the Wall Street Journal, which was first to report the news.
HHS has said conclusions should not be assumed until the final report is released, and Kenvue has stated it has continually reviewed the science and sees no causal link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism.
