Texas Sues J&J, Kenvue Over Tylenol Pregnancy Claims

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued Johnson & Johnson and its spinoff Kenvue in late October, alleging they deceptively marketed Tylenol as safe for pregnant women while concealing decades of evidence that prenatal acetaminophen exposure increases autism and ADHD risks and that J&J fraudulently shifted Tylenol liabilities to Kenvue. The complaint, filed under Texas consumer‑protection and fraudulent‑transfer laws, cites dozens of epidemiological studies and seeks civil penalties, injunctive relief and disgorgement. Paxton’s action, which follows public warnings last month from President Trump and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., makes Texas the first state to bring such legal action. Medical groups and many experts dispute a proven causal link, note conflicting study results (including large studies finding no association), and warn the guidance could confuse pregnant women. Kenvue called the claims baseless and said acetaminophen remains the safest option when used as directed; the lawsuit’s outcome could hinge on evolving science and whether the alleged transfer of assets was legally improper.