A recent White House autism briefing led to noticeable shifts in medication use, according to a Brown University study. After the briefing, which raised concerns about acetaminophen (Tylenol) during pregnancy, ER prescriptions dropped by about 10%. However, major medical groups like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists still consider acetaminophen the safest option for pain/fever relief in pregnancy, stating current evidence doesn’t support an autism link. Meanwhile, interest grew in leucovorin, an unproven autism therapy promoted during the briefing. The Autism Science Foundation and American Psychiatric Association caution against unverified treatments, emphasizing evidence-based approaches. Parents should consult their doctors before making medication changes.

Sources: Brown University, Disability Scoop, APA statements.