Tylenol And Autism: Trump, RFK Jr., And Officials To Link The Two In An Announcement Soon

Updated Sep 22, 2025 | 06:49 AM IST

SummaryThe autism debate in the Trump administration is nothing new. It started with the link between autism and vaccines, now it is seeping through a popular pain killer brand Tylenol. News has it that the announcement will link the two, advising pregnant woman to not consume this during pregnancy. Read on to know more.
Tylenol And Autism: Trump, RFK Jr., And Officials To Link The Two In An Announcement Soon

Credits: Tylenol and AP

Autism and President Donald Trump, at this moment goes hand in hand, as ever since Trump's administration, with the help of his handpicked Health Secretary RFK Jr. decided to conduct a study to examine the potential link between vaccines and autism. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had been told to study for the link between the two, a theory very well backed by President Trump and RFK Jr.

Up new is the recent plan to announce by the President on Monday that using Tylenol, a brand of medicine, used for reducing pain or fever, during pregnancy could increase the risk of autism. Two senior administration officials who have confirmed this news to POLITICO also said that advisory will be issued for pregnant women to only use generic acetaminophen for high fevers.

The officials have also told the media outlet that Trump may also highlight the benefit of leucovorin, which is a cancer and anemia drug as a potential therapy for people with autism.

"Autism Is Totally Out Of Control"

Not too long ago, on Friday, Trump himself said that he will soon be making a big announcement on the neurological condition. "Autism is totally out of control. I think we, maybe have a reason why," he told the reporters.

White House spokesperson Kush Desai, in a statement on Sunday said that the "announcement will make historic progress" in addressing rising autism rates. As per CDC's data, about 1 in 31 children aged 8 years has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Among them 1 in 6 children aged 3 to 17 years were diagnosed with a developmental disability, during the period study of 2009-2017. These also included attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)., blindness, and cerebral palsy.

The CDC also reported this spring that 1 in 31 American 8-year-olds was diagnosed with the condition in 2022, compared with 1 in 150 in 2000.

Why Autism? To Find The Answer Is HHS' Major Priority

Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. also promised earlier this year to have "some" answers to the question of why cases are increasing. This has been made HHS' major priority.

As per Kennedy, there are environmental factors too, though there is enough evidence to counter his argument. For him, vaccines are involved.

Read More: CDC Plans Vaccine-Autism Study Despite Scientific Consensus

Coming Back To Tylenol

Acetaminophen, sold under the brand name Tylenol, is the most widely used medication for pain and fever relief among pregnant women, who are generally advised to avoid ibuprofen (Advil) because of its link to miscarriage and birth defects.

According to a senior administration official, RFK Jr. and other top health leaders are expected to take part in an upcoming announcement. However, officials remain divided on how to address the sensitive issue of autism. Kennedy himself has expressed concern about a possible link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism but has been cautious about issuing a public warning.

The administration is simultaneously preparing a broader autism initiative. About a dozen working groups are set to investigate roughly 30 possible causes of the condition. A supporting literature review, still underway, will not be released ahead of Monday’s announcement.

Earlier this year, Kennedy pledged to identify the cause of autism by September, a timeline many researchers considered unrealistic. The National Institutes of Health, tasked with leading the effort, has already tempered expectations, saying new grant funding will launch this fall, with meaningful updates not expected until next year.

This month, The Wall Street Journal reported that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) intended to connect autism risk to Tylenol use in pregnancy, as well as to folate deficiencies in women, with leucovorin being floated as a possible therapy. But officials later confirmed that no such report currently exists, as reported by POLITICO.

Meanwhile, a review published last month in BMC Environmental Health by Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health dean Dr. Andrea Baccarelli and colleagues linked acetaminophen use to autism and urged caution. The authors recommended that pregnant women take the drug only when necessary, at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration, but stopped short of advising a complete ban.

Industry leaders are pushing back. According to The Wall Street Journal, Kirk Perry, interim CEO of Tylenol manufacturer Kenvue, privately urged Kennedy not to name Tylenol as a cause. Kenvue, spun off from Johnson & Johnson in 2023, considers Tylenol a flagship brand.

In a statement to POLITICO, a Kenvue spokesperson rejected any claims of a link. “Over a decade of rigorous research, endorsed by leading medical professionals and global health regulators, confirms there is no credible evidence connecting acetaminophen to autism,” the company said. It added that discouraging Tylenol use could leave women facing “dangerous choices” between untreated pain, which itself can harm mothers and babies, and riskier alternatives.

Major medical groups continue to support acetaminophen use in pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists maintains that there is “no clear evidence” tying appropriate use to fetal developmental problems and warns against leaving pain or fever untreated.

So far, studies on acetaminophen and autism have largely been observational, pointing to associations but not proving causation.

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Mounjaro Becomes India’s Top-Selling Medicine in October; What’s Driving The Surge

Updated Nov 8, 2025 | 12:01 PM IST

SummaryEli Lilly’s weight-loss and diabetes drug Mounjaro became India’s top-selling medicine by value in October, surpassing GSK’s Augmentin, according to data from Pharmarack. The injectable, launched in March 2025, brought in ₹1 billion in sales as demand for GLP-1 drugs soars.
mounjaro india medicine

Credits: Canva

Eli Lilly’s weight-loss and diabetes injection, Mounjaro, has overtaken GSK’s antibiotic Augmentin (GSK.L) to become India’s highest-selling drug by value in October, as demand for weight-loss treatments continues to surge in the world’s most populated country. According to new data from research firm Pharmarack, the U.S.-based drugmaker’s popular injectable earned ₹1 billion ($11.38 million) in sales last month, compared to Augmentin’s ₹800 million.

While Augmentin still led in overall units sold—5.8 million doses versus 85,000 of Mounjaro—the latter’s premium pricing pushed it ahead in total value, as per Reuters. Analysts say India is rapidly emerging as a major market for obesity treatments, with the global weight-loss drug sector expected to cross $150 billion annually by the end of this decade.

Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro Becomes India’s Top-Selling Medicine in October

Launched in India in March 2025, Mounjaro which helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduces appetite—has seen its sales double within months, surpassing its rival Wegovy by Novo Nordisk, which entered the Indian market in June. Data from Pharmarack shows that Mounjaro has so far generated ₹3.33 billion in total revenue.

“Mounjaro’s consumption in India by volume was nearly ten times higher than Wegovy in October,” said Sheetal Sapale, Vice President (Commercial) at Pharmarack. Eli Lilly sold around 262,000 doses of Mounjaro last month, compared to 26,000 doses of Wegovy. Both drugs belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, designed to treat obesity and type 2 diabetes.

How Does Mounjaro Work?

Mounjaro is a once-weekly injectable medication developed primarily for managing type 2 diabetes. Its key ingredient, tirzepatide, is the first of its kind to act on two gut hormones—GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). This dual mechanism makes Mounjaro more advanced than older drugs such as Ozempic (semaglutide) or Victoza (liraglutide), which target only GLP-1, which is thus driving a surge in its sale in india.

Although it was originally approved for diabetes management, Mounjaro has attracted global attention for its strong weight-loss effects. Ongoing studies are evaluating its use for non-diabetic individuals struggling with obesity. The drug mimics the action of GIP and GLP-1, which are hormones released naturally after meals to regulate insulin release, lower blood sugar, and suppress appetite.

Mounjaro for Type 2 Diabetes

For people living with type 2 diabetes, keeping blood sugar in check often requires a combination of medicines, diet adjustments, and regular monitoring. Mounjaro offers a more integrated solution by targeting multiple factors that influence glucose levels. Findings from clinical trials, including the SURPASS-1 to SURPASS-5 studies, show that Mounjaro delivers better outcomes than many existing diabetes treatments, particularly in lowering HbA1c levels—a key marker of long-term glucose control.

Patients using Mounjaro have shown:

  • Lower fasting and post-meal blood sugar levels
  • Reductions in HbA1c by up to 2.5%
  • Improved insulin sensitivity

Mounjaro and Weight Loss

Beyond its use for diabetes, Mounjaro has gained global popularity for its significant role in weight reduction. Clinical studies reveal that people taking the drug often lose between 15% and 20% of their body weight over several months of consistent use. This level of weight loss surpasses that seen with many earlier treatments and even some surgical interventions, making Mounjaro one of the most effective options currently available for managing obesity.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general information and should not replace professional medical guidance. Always consult your doctor for advice or concerns regarding any health condition.

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Trump Administration May Deny Visas To Obese, Diabetic Immigrants: What We Know So Far

Updated Nov 8, 2025 | 10:23 AM IST

SummaryThe Trump administration is reportedly considering new visa rules that could deny entry to immigrants with health conditions like obesity or diabetes. According to KFF Health News, a State Department cable instructed visa officers to assess applicants based on medical history, financial ability, and even the health of family members.
donald trump mri scan

Credits: CANVA

Following the sharp hike in the H-1B visa fee to $100,000, the Trump administration may soon begin rejecting visa applications from foreigners with certain health conditions, including diabetes and obesity.

While there has been no formal confirmation from U.S. authorities, a report by KFF Health News said a cable from the State Department to embassies and consulates listed new health-related grounds for visa denials.

Trump May Now Deny Entry to Diabetic and Obese Immigrants

According to the report, the guidance instructs visa officers to consider applicants ineligible for entry based on factors such as age and medical conditions, including cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, cancer, diabetes, metabolic and neurological disorders, and certain mental health conditions.

Officers have also been told to evaluate other issues such as obesity — which can contribute to high blood pressure, asthma, and sleep apnea, when assessing whether an applicant might become a “public charge,” or a potential financial burden on the U.S. government.

The guidance further directs officials to determine whether the applicant has sufficient financial resources to pay for their care. “Does the applicant have adequate financial resources to cover the costs of such care over his entire expected lifespan without seeking public cash assistance or long-term institutionalization at government expense?” the cable states.

It adds that individuals who could become a “public charge” — due to age or chronic health problems, may be denied entry for potentially relying on U.S. public resources.

Although the directive applies broadly to most visa categories, it is expected to primarily impact those applying for permanent residency, senior attorney Charles Wheeler told KFF Health News.

Can US Officers Reject Visas Over Health Or Financial Ability?

Visa officers have also been instructed to evaluate whether applicants can afford medical treatment independently, without relying on U.S. public funds.

Wheeler said the new rule gives officers the power to form their own opinions on what might lead to future medical emergencies or financial strain. “That’s concerning because these officers are not medically trained, have no expertise in this area, and should not be making projections based on personal judgment or bias,” Wheeler said.

US Visa Officers To Consider Health Of Applicants’ Family Members

The cable also instructs visa officers to assess the health of applicants’ family members — including children or elderly parents, when determining visa eligibility.

“Do any of the dependents have disabilities, chronic medical conditions, or other special needs and require care such that the applicant cannot maintain employment?” the State Department communication asks.

Currently, immigrant applicants must undergo a medical examination conducted by a doctor approved by the U.S. embassy. The screening includes tests for infectious diseases, an evaluation of mental health history, substance use, and proof of vaccination against illnesses such as measles, polio, and hepatitis B.

However, immigration lawyer Sophia Genovese from Georgetown University noted that the new guidance expands these requirements by directing officials to weigh long-term health conditions, not just communicable diseases, when reviewing visa applications.

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Fact Check: Did Novo Nordisk Executive Faint In Oval Office? Here's What Actually Happened

Updated Nov 7, 2025 | 12:51 PM IST

SummaryDuring Trump’s Oval Office announcement on TrumpRx, a man fainted, prompting Dr Mehmet Oz to assist him. Many believed the person was Novo Nordisk executive Gordon Findlay, but the company clarified he was not present. The incident renewed attention on how to respond when someone collapses, including CPR steps and safety checks.
Fact Check: Did Novo Nordisk Executive Faint In Oval Office? Here's What Actually Happened

Credits: X

While TrumpRx is making headlines for lowering the prices of popular weight loss drugs, something else has also grabbed attention of many. A video from the Oval Office from the Thursday Press Conference when President Donald Trump was announcing the deal with the drugmakers, a man had collapsed. Many claimed that the person who collapsed was Gordon Findlay, who is Novo Nordisk's executive. Dr Mehmet Oz, an American present and a physician was swift to check on the man who had collapsed. Independent journalist Eric Daugherty shared the video and wrote: "A man just passed out during President Trump's Oval Office announcement. Dr Oz Sprung into action and assisted him. Pray for him."

Also Read: TrumpRx: Will Trump’s New Website Make Prescription Drugs More Affordable?

Is The Man Gordon Findlay?

The reason why many have identified the man as Gordon Findlay because in the video, David Ricks, CEO of Eli Lily could be heard asking, "You okay? Gordon, you okay?" Upon this, the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in the statement that "a representative with one of the companies fainted". However, no names were given.

Also Read: TrumpRx Lowered Prices Of Popular Weight Loss Drugs; What More Does Trump's New Medical Website Offer?

Novo Nordisk later clarified the claims, and in a statement to Newsweek, the company said, "Please be aware that CEO Mike Doustdar and EVP, US operations, Dave More were the only two Novo Nordisk representatives in the Oval Office."

Dr Oz had previously also helped out at the Oval office in April, when a child fainted while he was being sworn in. A woman, who many media outlets claimed, appeared to be Oz's daughter, Daphne, escorted the girl who had fainted. Later, the White House official confirmed to Fox News Digital that the girl was family member of Oz and had recovered.

What To Do When Someone Collapses?

If someone collapses in front of you, the first need is for someone to try simple CPR or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, while medical help is on its way. What must one keep in mind if someone collapses?

Check for any danger around the person, and give the shoulders of the person who collapsed a shake. Ask them if they can hear you, notes BBC.

If there is no response, tilt their head back to ensure that the airway is clear. This may be enough for the person to again start breathing.

If they are not breathing, this is when CPR becomes important.

Also Read: Trump Strikes Agreement To Cut Costs of Popular Weight Loss Drugs: All You Need to Know

How To Do CPR The Right Way?

As per NHS, UK, there are two correct ways to practice CPR on adults:

Hands-only CPR

This is to be carry out as a chest compression

  • Start with kneeling next to the person and place the heel of your hand on the breastbone at the centre of their chest. Place the palm of your other hand on top of the hand that is on their chest and interlock your fingers.
  • Position yourself so your shoulders are directly above your hands.
  • Using your body weight (not just your arms), press straight down by 5 to 6cm (2 to 2.5 inches) on their chest.
  • Keeping your hands on their chest, release the compression and allow their chest to return to its original position.
  • Repeat these compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 times a minute until an ambulance arrives or for as long as you can.

CPR with rescue breaths

  • Place the heel of your hand on the center of the person's chest, then place the palm of your other hand on top and press down by 5 to 6cm (2 to 2.5 inches) at a steady rate of 100 to 120 compressions a minute.
  • After every 30 chest compressions, give 2 rescue breaths.
  • Tilt the person's head gently and lift the chin up with 2 fingers. Pinch the person's nose. Seal your mouth over their mouth and blow steadily and firmly into their mouth for about 1 second. Check that their chest rises. Give 2 rescue breaths.
  • Continue with cycles of 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths until they begin to recover or emergency help arrives.

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