French drugmaker Sanofi has said it is being investigated over Depakine, an epilepsy drug which caused birth malfunctions and slow neurological development when taken during pregnancy.

Women and girls taking an epilepsy drug that causes birth defects should be automatically reviewed by specialists to see if alternatives can be prescribed, campaigners say.

An Irish mother whose sons have been affected by exposure to an epilepsy drug has told European medical experts they must ensure that all women taking the drug are aware of the risks.