No link between taking paracetamol during pregnancy and children developing autism, research shows

Doctors say pregnant women should not be alarmed by claims linking paracetamol to autism or ADHD.

A major review in The Lancet has found no evidence that taking the drug during pregnancy increases the risk of neurodevelopmental conditions in children.

The study analysed decades of data and concluded paracetamol remains the safest option for treating pain and fever while pregnant.

It came about after Donald Trump claimed last year that the medication causes autism.

Dr Brendan O'Shea, Professor in Primary Care at Trinity College, says the president's comments were dangerous.

"None of this stands up. It didn't stand up on September 22nd; it doesn't stand up now.

"We are on the wrong track with this. This is not a health story; this is a political story."