Overview

• Multiple outlets, citing the Wall Street Journal, report a forthcoming HHS document will identify prenatal acetaminophen use and low folate as potential contributors to autism and will propose folinic acid to help reduce symptoms in some individuals.
• HHS has not confirmed the contents and said any claims about the report are speculation until the final findings are published.
• Kenvue, which makes Tylenol, said it sees no causal link between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and autism, and its shares fell as much as 14% before closing down about 9.5% on Friday.
• Leading guidance from the FDA and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says prudent acetaminophen use during pregnancy is not clearly linked to fetal developmental harm, and a 2024 sibling-controlled Swedish study found no causal association.
• The report is tied to NIH’s Autism Data Science Initiative, with new research grants expected this month, as prior federal litigation alleging a Tylenol–autism link was dismissed after judges excluded expert testimony.