The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has reaffirmed that paracetamol remains the safest option for managing pain and fever during pregnancy, following a new large-scale systematic review and meta-analysis published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women’s Health.

The comprehensive analysis found no evidence linking paracetamol use during pregnancy to an increased risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or intellectual disability in children.

Commenting on the findings, Dr Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer at the MHRA, said the review provides strong reassurance for expectant mothers. She stated, “Paracetamol remains safe to use during pregnancy. This large-scale analysis found no association between taking paracetamol in pregnancy and autism, ADHD, or disability in children.” 

Dr Cave added that paracetamol has been used for decades and continues to be the recommended first-line treatment for pain and fever during pregnancy. “When taken as directed, it is safe and effective,” she noted, while advising pregnant women to consult healthcare professionals if they have concerns.

Current NHS guidance recommends using paracetamol at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest possible duration during pregnancy. The MHRA also cautioned that untreated pain or fever may pose risks to the unborn baby and advised against stopping prescribed pain medicines without medical advice.

The regulator said it routinely reviews the safety of paracetamol during pregnancy to ensure benefits outweigh any potential risks. Patients and healthcare professionals are encouraged to report suspected side effects through the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme.