Fact Check: Did the FDA Approve Leucovorin to Help Hundreds of Thousands With Autism?

Media Bias Fact Check (MBFC) publishes daily vetted fact checks from verified IFCN-approved sources. Each claim is independently reviewed for accuracy and context.


Claimant: Dr. Marty Makary


Claim: A new FDA label change for leucovorin would benefit “hundreds of thousands of kids” with autism.


Rating: MISLEADING


Explanation: The FDA expanded leucovorin’s label only for a rare genetic condition known as cerebral folate deficiency caused by a specific mutation. The condition affects about 1 in 1 million people, or roughly 70 children in the United States. The FDA did not approve leucovorin as a treatment for autism, and evidence supporting broad benefits for children with autism remains limited.


View Full Fact Check


Date: 03/15/2026


Do you appreciate our work? Please consider supporting MBFC.

MBFC Ad-Free

or

MBFC Donation

Last Updated on March 15, 2026 by Media Bias Fact Check