Trump Links Tylenol to Autism — Why More Research Is Needed and What We Already Know About Leucovorin & MTHFR

Trump Autism

September 22, 2025 – In a surprising announcement, U.S. President Donald Trump publicly stated that the use of Tylenol (acetaminophen/paracetamol) during pregnancy may increase the risk of autism in children. He also endorsed the use of leucovorin (a form of folinic acid/active folate) as a treatment for autism.

While this has sparked international debate, experts have been quick to stress that scientific evidence does not yet establish a clear causal link between Tylenol in pregnancy and autism. More large-scale, controlled clinical trials are needed before making definitive conclusions.

What is Tylenol?

Tylenol is a brand name for acetaminophen (also called paracetamol internationally). It is one of the most widely used pain relievers and fever reducers worldwide.

  • Malaysia & Singapore: Known as paracetamol, with Panadol being the most popular brand.
  • China: 对乙酰氨基酚 (duì yǐ xiān ān jī fēn).
  • Japan: Sold as Tylenol (タイレノール) and other paracetamol products.
  • South Korea: Known as 타이레놀 (Tylenol) or acetaminophen.
  • Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia: Widely sold as paracetamol, with Panadol and other generics dominating.

Despite its reputation for safety, paracetamol can cause liver damage in overdose, and questions have been raised in recent years about its effects when used frequently during pregnancy.

Leucovorin and Autism — A Deeper Story

What is new to the public is not new to us.

At Stem Cells Center Malaysia, we have long recognized the importance of leucovorin (folinic acid) in addressing autism symptoms, especially in children with MTHFR gene mutations. These mutations affect folate metabolism, reducing the ability to convert folic acid into its active form, which is essential for brain development and neurotransmitter balance.

Long before this presidential announcement, we collaborated with partners in the United States to develop specialized vitamins and nutraceuticals containing leucovorin and other targeted nutrients. These formulations were designed specifically for children with autism and related neurodevelopmental conditions, ensuring optimal folate metabolism support where conventional vitamins often fail.

This personalized approach — backed by genetic insights into MTHFR and metabolic pathways — has allowed us to offer more effective solutions for families navigating autism care.

Our Perspective

  • On Tylenol & Autism: The association remains inconclusive. Pregnant women should consult their doctors before making changes to medication use.
  • On Leucovorin & MTHFR: This is an area where science, genetics, and clinical experience align. Correcting folate metabolism has shown measurable improvements in speech, behavior, and cognition for many children with autism.
  • On Innovation: We continue to bring USA-formulated, practitioner-grade supplements into Asia, bridging global science with local care.

Final Word

President Trump’s remarks have stirred the conversation, but what truly matters is evidence-based care. At Stem Cells Center Malaysia, we remain committed to cutting-edge therapies, genetic insights, and targeted nutrition for autism and neurodevelopmental disorders.

We welcome families to speak with us about:

  • Genetic testing (MTHFR & related SNPs)
  • Customized supplement protocols (including leucovorin formulations)
  • Advanced cellular therapies for autism

By combining global research with local expertise, we aim to stay years ahead in supporting children with autism and their families.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your physician or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or supplement. Do not discontinue Tylenol or any other prescribed drug without medical supervision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Leucovorin (folinic acid) is a form of active folate that bypasses the metabolic block seen in people with MTHFR gene mutations. Research has shown that leucovorin supplementation may improve speech, language, and social interaction in children with autism, especially when MTHFR or folate pathway issues are present.

Normal folic acid must be converted by the body into its active form. Children with MTHFR mutations often have difficulty making this conversion. Leucovorin (or L-methylfolate) is already in an active form, making it more effective in supporting brain development and neurotransmitter balance.

Yes. Long before this announcement, our team recognized the importance of folate metabolism in autism care. We collaborated with partners in the United States to develop practitioner-grade vitamins and nutraceuticals containing leucovorin and other targeted nutrients specifically for children with autism.

MTHFR is a gene that controls how your body processes folate and homocysteine. Certain mutations can impair this process, leading to folate deficiency in the brain. Correcting this pathway with active folates like leucovorin can significantly improve developmental outcomes in children with autism.

Yes. We provide a comprehensive approach that includes:

  1. Genetic testing (MTHFR & related SNPs)
  2. Targeted supplements (leucovorin and USA-formulated vitamins)
  3. Advanced cellular therapies (mesenchymal stem cells, exosomes)
  4. Integrated support programs for speech, behavior, and cognitive development