Kenvue Stock Declines Amid Autism-Tylenol Link Report
Shares of Kenvue Inc. fell more than 10% on Friday following reports that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is expected to associate the use of Tylenol during pregnancy with increased autism risk in an upcoming government report.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the report is scheduled for release this month and may also recommend a folate-derived medication as a potential treatment for autism symptoms in some patients.
Official Response and Scientific Context
An HHS spokesperson stated the department is employing “gold-standard science” to investigate the rise in autism rates and cautioned that any assertions about the report prior to its release are speculative.
Kenvue, which markets Tylenol, reaffirmed its position that no causal relationship exists between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism. The company referenced ongoing evaluations of scientific data and cited endorsements from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and leading medical organizations regarding the drug’s safety profile.
The FDA website indicates there is no clear evidence linking appropriate acetaminophen use during pregnancy to adverse developmental outcomes but advises consultation with healthcare providers before use. Similarly, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists supports acetaminophen as safe during pregnancy when used as directed.
Legal and Research Background
While some prior studies and parent-led lawsuits have suggested potential risks of acetaminophen to fetal development, a federal judge dismissed these claims in 2023 due to insufficient scientific support, ending related litigation in 2024. Other research has found no association between acetaminophen use and autism.
BNP Paribas analyst Navann Ty noted that the burden of proof for causation remains high, especially given the prior legal rulings favoring Kenvue.
Broader Implications
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s leadership at HHS has seen increased scrutiny of established medical treatments, including efforts to revise vaccine policies and amplify controversial views on mRNA vaccines. Autism has been a central focus, with Kennedy pledging significant research initiatives to identify causes behind rising autism rates.
FinOracleAI — Market View
The announcement linking Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism has triggered a sharp selloff in Kenvue’s stock, reflecting investor concerns about potential regulatory and reputational risks. However, given the lack of conclusive scientific evidence and previous legal dismissals, the long-term impact remains uncertain. Market participants should monitor the official report release and any regulatory actions closely, as well as ongoing scientific studies that could influence public perception and policy.
Impact: negative
