(NewsNation) — The maker of Tylenol says a post advising women not to use the medication during pregnancy was taken out of context.
The post surfaced after President Donald Trump and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said that the use of acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, during pregnancy could lead to autism.
The president repeatedly said pregnant people shouldn’t take Tylenol, telling them to suffer through, and urged parents not to give Tylenol to children.
Medical groups have pushed back, noting that there is not sufficient medical evidence to say that Tylenol use is connected to autism. Tylenol is considered one of the few safe medications for use during pregnancy, especially to treat fevers, which can be dangerous to the fetus.
Kenvue, the company that makes Tylenol, told NewsNation the post was taken out of context and does not reflect the company’s full guidelines.
“We do not make recommendations on taking any medications in pregnancy because that is the job of a healthcare provider,” a spokesperson said.
“This eight-year-old consumer response is incomplete and did not address our full guidance on the safe use of Tylenol.”
The spokesperson said the company recommends pregnant women do not take any over-the-counter medication, including acetaminophen, without talking to their doctor first.
“Acetaminophen is the safest pain reliever option for pregnant women as needed throughout their entire pregnancy. Our products are safe and effective when used as directed on the product label,” they continued.
“It’s also worth noting that [the 2017 post] was in response to a tweet that was deleted by the author (not by Kenvue/Tylenol). That’s why you can’t see the full thread.”
The company’s website also disputes the allegation that Tylenol causes autism.
“If you are treating your little one with acetaminophen, please know that there is no credible science that shows taking acetaminophen causes autism. When searching what medicine may be suitable for infants and children, the best thing you can do is to speak with your healthcare provider — they will guide you on what is best for your child’s pain and fever. Be sure to always follow the dosage guidelines provided on the product label or by your healthcare provider,” the company website states.