Damage control is in full swing as the parent company of Tylenol rushes to counter U.S. President Donald Trump’s baseless assertion that using Tylenol during pregnancy is connected to autism spectrum disorder. “Don’t take it. Fight like hell not to take it,” Trump declared on Monday, drawing a link between the painkiller’s active ingredient, acetaminophen, and the disorder.
Experts caution that there is no solid evidence supporting this connection, a sentiment echoed by Kenvue, the manufacturer of Tylenol. “We believe independent, sound science clearly shows that taking acetaminophen does not cause autism,” a company spokesperson stated. Kenvue faces a significant public relations challenge in light of the situation, according to experts.
Julie McCarthy, president of Toronto-based public relations firm BlueSky Communications, predicts that the fallout from the Tylenol incident may endure for an extended period. She emphasizes the importance of monitoring the ongoing discourse, combatting misinformation with accurate information, especially on social media platforms. Despite the crisis, Tylenol’s well-established brand reputation and the support from credible sources are noted as advantages.
Carol Levine, CEO of Energi PR, stresses the need for swift action during crises, highlighting the importance of Kenvue’s prompt response with scientific backing and relatable language. Levine also underscores the escalating issue of medical misinformation affecting public trust in healthcare and pharmaceutical companies.
In response to the situation, companies are encouraged to collaborate on public relations campaigns aimed at educating the public. Leveraging partnerships with patient organizations could facilitate targeted communication efforts. Dr. Darine El-Chaar of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada expresses disappointment over the impact of Trump’s comments on healthcare providers and patients, emphasizing the need to redirect efforts towards improving therapies rather than dispelling misinformation.
