Local neurologist discusses Tylenol use after President Trump’s big announcement linking Tylenol to autism

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - WTOC is working to get answers after President Trump’s big announcement linking Tylenol to autism.

We spoke to a doctor about the claim and what you need to know.

Monday, President Donald Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. claimed there is a link between Tylenol use and the growing autism rate in the United States. 

“So, taking Tylenol is not good. I’ll say it, it’s not good. For this reason, they are strongly recommending that women limit Tylenol use during pregnancy unless medically necessary,” said President Donald Trump.

In a statement to CBS News, Kenvue, the maker of Tylenol, said “independent, sound science clearly shows that taking acetaminophen does not cause autism.”

Neurologist Dr. Brandon Crawford says there are many factors contributing to autism.

“What we know is that when you take acetaminophen, is that it will deplete your glutathione stores. If you look at studies, postmortem studies done on the autistic brain, you will see that glutathione is depleted in these brains,” said Dr. Crawford.

He says people need to be more aware of what they are putting into their bodies when purchasing any over the counter drugs. 

“I’m not saying that everyone should be taking it all the time but look it’s dose dependent, use it when needed and under proper medical direction and you should be fine. Of course your entire background is what really matters. Your genetics, your epi genetics, lifestyle status, current inflammatory status. All of these things should be taken into consideration even when considering over the counter medication,” said Dr. Crawford.