Following heightened public concern over potential health risks associated with acetaminophen use during pregnancy, the state of Texas has filed a lawsuit against pharmaceutical giants Johnson & Johnson and its spinoff Kenvue. The case alleges that the companies failed to adequately warn consumers about potential links between acetaminophen and autism, a claim that has sparked both legal and public health debates. The suit was filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who has been vocal about holding pharmaceutical companies accountable for alleged deceptive practices.
The legal action comes in the wake of former President Donald Trump’s public statements suggesting a connection between acetaminophen use by pregnant women and an increased risk of autism. These comments, made during a 2022 speech, drew significant media attention and sparked controversy among medical professionals, who pointed out that current scientific evidence does not support such a direct link. Nevertheless, the lawsuit claims that pharmaceutical companies may have concealed or downplayed this potential risk, leading to possible harm to unborn children.
Johnson & Johnson, a multinational corporation with a long history in the pharmaceutical industry, has faced numerous regulatory and legal challenges over the years. Kenvue, the spinoff company that now handles the Tylenol brand, has been in operation since 2023, following its separation from Johnson & Johnson. The lawsuit alleges that these companies have a responsibility to transparently communicate potential health risks, especially when it comes to medications used by pregnant women. Legal experts are closely monitoring the case, as it could set a precedent for similar lawsuits related to drug safety and transparency.