The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has reaffirmed today (September 23) that paracetamol remains safe for use during pregnancy and that there is no evidence linking it to autism in children.

The advice comes in the wake of President Trump’s unfounded claims involving a possible link between paracetamol and autism in children, to which health secretary Wes Streeting responded by urging pregnant women “not to pay any attention [to the President's comments] whatsoever”.

Dr Alison Cave, chief safety officer at MHRA, stressed that paracetamol is the recommended pain relief option for pregnant women when taken as directed. She advised women to follow NHS guidance and consult healthcare professionals if they have concerns about medicines during pregnancy.

The MHRA warned that untreated pain and fever can pose risks to unborn babies, underlining the importance of safe symptom management. The agency said it continuously reviews evidence and monitors medicine safety through its Yellow Card scheme, urging the public to report any suspected side-effects.

Paracetamol should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time, with medical advice sought if symptoms persist, it added.

Pharmacy bodies were also quick to respond to the alarmist media coverage. Olivier Picard, NPA chair, said: “Pharmacies are following advice from UK regulators closely and are encouraging pregnant women to continue to take paracetamol as their first choice pain relief, where this is appropriate.

“If patients are concerned about any of the medications they are taking, including pain relief, they should speak to their pharmacist who can advise them.” 

Professor Claire Anderson, RPS president, said: “Paracetamol has been used safely by millions of people for decades, including during pregnancy, when taken as directed. It is the first-line choice for pain management and fever control in a variety of patients, including pregnant women, children and the elderly.

A large study conducted in 2024 found no evidence of a link between paracetamol use in pregnancy and an increased risk of autism in children. 

“This research, which followed over 2.4 million children, provides reassurance for expectant parents that paracetamol remains a safe option for managing pain or fever during pregnancy when used as recommended,” she added.