The stock of Kenvue, the company behind Tylenol, took a sharp hit this week after reports suggested that U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is preparing a report that could raise questions about the use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) during pregnancy. The report is expected to examine whether there may be a connection to autism in children, a claim that has reignited debate among health experts and investors alike.
Shares dropped nearly 10–14% following the news, reflecting investor anxiety even though the report has not yet been officially released.
Why Investors Reacted So Strongly
The upcoming government review is rumored to highlight two possible factors linked to autism: the use of acetaminophen by pregnant women and deficiencies in folate levels. It may also point to folinic acid as a potential option for reducing certain autism-related symptoms.
Still, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) cautioned against drawing conclusions too early. Officials emphasized that the findings are still under evaluation and that all research is being assessed under rigorous scientific standards.
Kenvue Pushes Back
In response, Kenvue has defended Tylenol’s track record. The company stressed that:
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Acetaminophen has long been approved by the FDA and is widely considered safe for use during pregnancy.
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Decades of research have not established a proven causal link between acetaminophen and autism.
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Expecting mothers should always seek medical advice before using over-the-counter pain relievers.
Kenvue framed the market’s reaction as an overreach, pointing out that the science does not support the claims currently circulating.
Looking at the Research
This is not the first time Tylenol’s safety has come under the microscope. Over the past few years, lawsuits alleged a connection between prenatal acetaminophen use and neurodevelopmental disorders. But in 2024, a federal judge dismissed those cases, ruling that the evidence was not strong enough to move forward.
Adding to that, a landmark 2024 JAMA study conducted in Sweden reviewed data from more than 2.4 million children. The results found no link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism, ADHD, or other developmental conditions. Many health experts now cite this research as one of the most comprehensive investigations into the matter.
Market and Analyst Views
The sell-off reflects how sensitive markets can be to health-related headlines. Some analysts believe the decline is an overreaction that could stabilize once the official report is out. Others caution that even speculation can damage public trust in household brands, especially those associated with children’s health.
Final Thoughts
This situation highlights the tension between public health communication and scientific evidence. While it’s vital to explore potential risks, premature claims can stir unnecessary panic among consumers and rattle investors.
For now, there is no scientific proof that Tylenol use during pregnancy causes autism. As the HHS prepares to publish its findings, families, healthcare providers, and investors will be watching closely for clarity.
