IT FUCKING DOESNT
Does Tylenol cause autism? No — here's why.
Satire at the top, science underneath. Evidence-based citations from medical organizations and peer-reviewed summaries.
Satire
Gravity also causes autism. So does toast. That's how silly it sounds when complex neurodevelopmental conditions are blamed on a common pain reliever without evidence.
The facts
- There is no credible evidence that acetaminophen (Tylenol) causes autism.
- Large population studies and medical organizations do not support a causal link.
- Untreated fever and pain in pregnancy can themselves pose risks — always follow medical advice.
Citations and responses
- Yale School of Public Health: What the research says about autism and acetaminophen (2025)
- Nature News: Evidence and debate on acetaminophen and autism (2025)
- CDC: What we know about autism
- Autism Speaks: Review of studies on Tylenol and autism (includes large cohort analysis)
- Reuters coverage: Claims linking Tylenol and autism not backed by science (2025)
- AP News Fact Focus: False and misleading claims about autism and Tylenol (2025)
FAQ
Does Tylenol cause autism?
No. High-quality evidence does not support a causal relationship. See the citations above.
What do large studies show about Tylenol and autism?
Large cohort studies and meta-analyses do not find a causal link between acetaminophen use and autism.
Why do some headlines suggest a link?
Observational associations can be confounded by underlying illness (e.g., fever), recall bias, and other factors. Association is not causation.
How should acetaminophen be used during pregnancy?
Only when needed, at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration per label, and in consultation with a clinician.
Should pregnant people avoid Tylenol completely?
Blanket avoidance is not recommended. Untreated fever and pain can pose risks; decisions should be made with a healthcare professional.