The government has released new safety guidelines for paracetamol, following a comprehensive official review.

Paracetamol, a widely used pain reliever in the UK, is frequently relied upon to treat a variety of common ailments, such as headaches, flu symptoms, fevers, and other minor health issues.

The safety of this medication recently became a topic of discussion after former US President Donald Trump made claims about a potential link between Tylenol—an American brand of paracetamol—and autism.

In September, Trump remarked on the “meteoric rise” in autism cases and suggested that Tylenol could be a contributing factor. He advised against the use of the painkiller during pregnancy, urging expectant mothers to endure discomfort without medication.

In response, the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority (MHRA) has issued a statement based on new findings published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women’s Health, reviewing the effects of paracetamol on pregnant women.

Now, the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority has issued a statement following a new review of paracetamol’s effects on pregnant women published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women’s Health.

It found ‘no evidence’ of any link between paracetamol and autism, ADHD or any mental disability among children.

It said: “Following publication of a new systematic review and meta-analysis in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women’s Health which found no evidence that paracetamol use during pregnancy increases the risk of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD or intellectual disability among children, the MHRA has reaffirmed that paracetamol continues to be the safest option for managing pain and fever during pregnancy.”

The MHRA says paracetamol is therefore still recommended as the ‘first choice’ painkiller for pregnant women.

Dr Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer at the MHRA, said: “Paracetamol remains safe to use during pregnancy. This large-scale analysis of the evidence found no link between taking paracetamol during pregnancy and autism, ADHD, or disability in children.

“Paracetamol has been used for many years and is the recommended first choice for treating pain or fever during pregnancy. When taken as directed, it is safe and effective.

“As with all medicines, pregnant women should speak to their doctor, pharmacist or midwife if they have any questions, and follow the guidance provided with the medicine.”