Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson and Kenvue, the makers of Tylenol, alleging that they intentionally concealed the drug’s purported connections to autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This legal action follows recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested a possible link between using Tylenol during pregnancy and the development of autism in children, despite lacking medical expertise and scientific evidence to support his claim.
Having marketed Tylenol for over 60 years, Johnson & Johnson later spun off a portion of its operations in 2023, creating Kenvue, the current distributor of the brand-name drug acetaminophen. Kenvue has staunchly defended the safety of Tylenol, asserting that acetaminophen remains the safest option for pain relief in pregnant women throughout their pregnancy, denouncing misinformation on its safety.
In response to Paxton’s lawsuit, Kenvue stated its intent to vigorously defend against the allegations, emphasizing their commitment to providing safe products. Johnson & Johnson refrained from commenting on the legal action, highlighting that Kenvue holds all responsibilities and liabilities regarding the sale of its over-the-counter products, including Tylenol.
Following the lawsuit, shares of Kenvue and Johnson & Johnson experienced declines in morning trading. Paxton initiated the complaint in a Texas state court, citing governmental affirmation that acetaminophen usage during pregnancy likely contributes to autism and ADHD, accusing Johnson & Johnson and Kenvue of failing to disclose these risks to pregnant women despite substantial evidence.
Paxton also referenced Trump’s advice urging caution in using Tylenol during pregnancy unless deemed essential, reiterating these concerns on social media. The attorney general alleged violations of Texas laws against deceptive trade practices and fraudulent transfers by the companies in concealing risks and executing the spin-off to evade liability.
Health Canada countered Trump’s assertions, affirming that Tylenol is a recommended treatment for fever and pain during pregnancy when used as directed by healthcare providers, emphasizing the lack of conclusive evidence linking acetaminophen use during pregnancy to autism or other neurological disorders. The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada reiterated the safety and appropriateness of acetaminophen for pregnant women when necessary.
Numerous private lawsuits have been filed by families claiming that their children developed autism or ADHD due to maternal Tylenol use during pregnancy. While some cases were dismissed, a federal appeals court will review the families’ appeals. Johnson & Johnson faces legal actions from over 73,000 plaintiffs alleging cancer diagnoses following the use of its talc products.