Texas Attorney General Sues Tylenol Makers Over Autism Claims

 

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a major lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson and Kenvue, the current maker of Tylenol, accusing the companies of misleading pregnant women by promoting the popular pain reliever as the only safe option during pregnancy.

Filed in Panola County District Court, the lawsuit argues that Tylenol’s active ingredient — acetaminophen — may increase the risk of autism in children when taken by expectant mothers. Paxton claims the companies “deceptively marketed” the drug despite knowing potential dangers, violating the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act.

“Big Pharma betrayed America by putting profits over people,” Paxton said in a statement. “We’re holding them accountable for misleading millions of families.”

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Pharma Companies Push Back, Calling the Claims “Misinformation”

Kenvue, which now owns Tylenol, strongly denied the allegations. In an emailed statement, the company said:

“Nothing matters more than the safety of the people who use our products. We will vigorously defend against these claims.”

Kenvue added that acetaminophen has been proven safe when used as directed and that spreading misinformation could harm public trust — especially among pregnant women who rely on safe pain relief.

Johnson & Johnson, which spun off its consumer health division years ago, emphasized that all responsibility for Tylenol now lies with Kenvue.

The lawsuit seeks a jury trial and requests that both companies destroy any advertising suggesting Tylenol is safe for pregnant women. It also calls for $10,000 in civil penalties per violation.

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Experts Say Tylenol Remains Essential — and Safe — for Expecting Mothers

While the lawsuit has sparked national debate, medical experts stress that there is no conclusive evidence linking acetaminophen to autism.

Dr. Steven J. Fleischman, president of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, called the autism link “irresponsible” and warned that such claims could confuse and frighten pregnant women.

“Acetaminophen is one of the few medicines that can safely treat fever and pain during pregnancy,” Fleischman said. “Untreated pain or fever can actually pose greater risks to both mother and baby.”

He added that conditions like preeclampsia, maternal fever, and severe headaches are often managed with acetaminophen — making it an essential medication when used properly.

As the legal battle unfolds, health officials continue to urge expecting mothers to consult their doctors before taking any over-the-counter drug — including Tylenol — and to rely on medical advice rather than political statements.