why did trump say dont take tylenol

President Donald Trump said "don't take Tylenol" primarily in the context of pregnancy because he suggested a link between the use of acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol) during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism in children. He urged pregnant women to avoid taking Tylenol unless absolutely necessary, such as for extreme fever, stating that there is "no downside" to avoiding it because of potential risks to the baby. Trump presented this viewpoint alongside Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., with the FDA beginning a process to update Tylenol labeling and notify physicians accordingly. However, medical experts and major health organizations have cautioned that the scientific evidence on this link is mixed and inconclusive. Many emphasize that acetaminophen remains the safest over-the-counter pain relief option during pregnancy, and untreated fever or pain can pose serious risks to both mother and fetus. The FDA and medical groups advise caution and informed decision-making, rather than a blanket avoidance as Trump recommended. The announcement and framing by Trump caused controversy and pushback from the medical community and Tylenol's manufacturer, which strongly opposes the claim that acetaminophen causes autism.