Controversies Surrounding Tylenol and New Treatment Methods for Autism

The recent announcements by the Trump administration have sparked significant discussion within the medical community. President Donald Trump stated that there is a link between the active ingredient acetaminophen, which is present in Tylenol, and autism, advising pregnant women against using the medication without urgent medical necessity. Despite a lack of scientific evidence, he recommends drastically reducing its use. At the same time, new developments in autism treatment were presented. The government initiated the approval of leucovorin, a form of folic acid, as a treatment for autism. Originally used against side effects of cancer medications, it is now being investigated for its potential to aid in autism. The manufacturer GSK Plc is collaborating with regulatory authorities to adjust labeling. Trump took the opportunity to criticize the vaccination guidelines for children. He expressed that vaccinations should be spread over a longer period instead of being administered in bundles. This stance is based on long-standing but scientifically debunked theories. The shares of Kenvue, the manufacturer of Tylenol, experienced a short-term decline but quickly recovered, as no concrete changes to product labeling were announced. This was viewed by analysts as a positive aspect. These developments once again raise the question of how scientific findings are integrated into health policy decisions and how this impacts the companies involved. In a year full of debates about the causes of autism, it becomes evident that further research is necessary to draw definitive conclusions.