Texas has filed a landmark lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson and its former consumer health unit, Kenvue, over claims that the companies concealed information regarding potential links between Tylenol (acetaminophen) and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and ADHD. The lawsuit, spearheaded by the Texas Attorney General, alleges that decades of internal research suggesting possible risks were not disclosed to the public, raising questions about corporate accountability and public safety.
This state-level action comes alongside a broader federal legal battle. A multidistrict litigation (MDL) involving thousands of plaintiffs who claim a connection between Tylenol use during pregnancy and subsequent autism diagnoses has been ongoing for several years. While a federal judge previously dismissed the MDL, excluding the plaintiffs’ expert testimony on general causation, appeals have kept the case alive. Legal experts note that the outcome of these appeals could significantly influence both the scale and trajectory of future lawsuits.
The Texas lawsuit emphasizes the need for transparency and corporate responsibility in consumer health products. It claims that the companies prioritized profits over public safety by failing to adequately warn consumers about potential risks. Johnson & Johnson and Kenvue have yet to publicly respond to the allegations, but both companies have historically defended Tylenol as safe when used according to guidelines.
If plaintiffs succeed in the federal appeals or state-level cases, this litigation could become one of the largest mass torts in U.S. history, potentially affecting tens of thousands of individuals. Legal analysts are closely watching the developments, highlighting the broader implications for pharmaceutical regulation, liability, and public trust. Families and healthcare professionals are being urged to stay informed and consult legal experts if they believe they may have a claim.
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