Texas Sues Tylenol Makers Over Alleged Risks to Children’s Brain Development
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit today against Johnson & Johnson and Kenvue, the current and former manufacturers of Tylenol, alleging the companies concealed potential dangers the pain reliever poses to children’s brain development.
The lawsuit, filed on 2025-10-28, claims the companies “betrayed America by profiting off of pain and pushing pills regardless of the risks,” according to Paxton. He alleges they “willfully ignored and attempted to silence the science” linking acetaminophen to autism. This action comes a month after former President Donald Trump publicly raised concerns about a possible connection between Tylenol use during pregnancy and autism, prompting scrutiny from public health officials.
Kenvue strongly disputes the claims, stating there is “no credible evidence tying Tylenol to autism” and expressing concern over the “perpetuation of misinformation.” The company maintains that extensive research has not established a proven link, a position supported by organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, which notes acetaminophen remains a vital option for managing pain and fever during pregnancy. The FDA also stated that “a causal relationship” between the drug and autism has not been established, though it suggested considering limiting use. The lawsuit echoes a similar case brought by parents of children with autism and ADHD in 2022, which was ultimately dismissed by a federal judge due to inconclusive research.
Paxton is seeking to compel the companies to destroy any marketing materials claiming Tylenol’s safety for pregnant women. The legal action is unfolding as the FDA, under Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr., has pledged further research into the causes of autism, a complex neurodevelopmental condition affecting how individuals perceive the world – learn more about autism from the CDC. Officials stated they will vigorously defend their position in court.
