One final caution: Some liquid cold medicines contain alcohol in concentrations as high as 4. Look for products that are labeled "alcohol-free. Read more about over-the-counter medications during pregnancy. BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world.
When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies. Erebara A, et al. Treating the common cold during pregnancy. Canadian Family Physician h54 5 Mayo Clinic. Drugs and supplements, cough and cold combinations oral route : Pregnancy.
Silva R, et al. Clinical inquiries. Is guaifenesin safe during pregnancy? Journal of Family Practice 56 8 Wigle PR, et al. Pregnancy and OTC cough, cold, and analgesic preparations. US Pharmacist Brand names are:. The active ingredients in Vicks VapoRub are menthol and camphor oils used as a cough suppressant.
Vick 44 is a cough syrup that contains dextromethorphan. These medications have been deemed safe for use during pregnancy. We offer specialized, compassionate care combined with cutting-edge treatments in obstetrics and gynecology. Common medications that should be avoided during pregnancy include: ACE inhibitors for high blood pressure or congestive heart failure, which can cause miscarriage or birth defects Isotretinoin Accutane for cystic acne causes extreme birth defects Methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis causes birth defects or miscarriage Naproxen Aleve , an NSAID used for pain treatment, can cause birth defects, miscarriage, increased fetal blood pressure and can reduce the amount of amniotic fluid Valproic acid for epilepsy and bipolar disorder can cause heart defects and cleft palate Which Medicines Are OK to Take During Pregnancy?
There are many medications that are safe to use in moderation during pregnancy. Even medications that are considered safe in pregnancy can become dangerous when they interact with others.
Acetaminophen Tylenol is okay to take for treating general aches, pains and headaches. These OTC drugs may be associated with congenital heart defects when taken during the first trimester. For congestion issues , antihistamines such as diphenhydramine Benadryl and loratidine Claritin appear to be safe during pregnancy. Also, decongestants such as phenylephrine may affect blood flow to the placenta and should generally be avoided throughout your pregnancy.
Two major cough medication ingredients—dextromethorphan a cough suppressant and guaifenesin an expectorant, which means it loosens up thick mucus —both appear to be safe during pregnancy, although both have been tested in relatively few studies.
To help ease constipation , both Metamucil and stool softeners like Colace appear to be safe in pregnancy. Laxatives, mineral oils and rectal suppositories may stimulate labor, so these should only be used after speaking with your doctor. Antacids such as Tums and Mylanta appear to be safe in pregnancy, and for most women, they significantly improve heartburn symptoms.
While ranitidine Zantac had previously been considered safe during pregnancy, in the FDA detected low levels of a cancer-causing contaminant in samples of the drug, and manufacturers have voluntarily recalled the medicines.
0コメント