Taking Medicine During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Taking medicine during pregnancy can be concerning for many women.

While some medications are safe during pregnancy, others can have harmful effects on a developing baby. It's important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any medications during pregnancy.

Prenatal vitamins are safe and important to take when you're pregnant. Ask your health care provider about the safety of taking other vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements. Most herbal preparations and supplements have not been proven to be safe during pregnancy. Generally, you should not take any OTC medication while pregnant unless it is necessary.

Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to taking medicine during pregnancy:

1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: Before taking any medications during pregnancy, talk to your healthcare provider to make sure they're safe for you and your baby.

2. Follow Dosage Instructions: If you are given the green light to take a medication during pregnancy, make sure you follow the dosage instructions carefully.

3. Avoid Certain Medications: Some medications should be avoided during pregnancy, such as certain pain medications and medications for acne.

4. Don't Stop Taking Prescribed Medications: If you're taking a medication for a chronic condition, such as asthma or diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider before stopping or changing your medication.

5. Use Natural Remedies with Caution: While natural remedies may seem safe, not all are safe during pregnancy. Talk to your healthcare provider before using any natural remedies.

6. Report Any Side Effects: If you experience any side effects after taking medication during pregnancy, report them to your healthcare provider immediately.

The following medications and home remedies have no known harmful effects during pregnancy when taken according to the package directions.

Contact your doctor for additional information on their safety or for medications not listed here.

Safe Medications to Take During Pregnancy*

Allergy

• diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
• Loratadine (Claritin)
• Steroid nasal spray (Rhinocort)

Check with your doctor before taking these in the first trimester.

Cold and Flu

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Saline nasal drops or spray
• Warm salt/water gargle

Check with your doctor before taking any other medications, especially in the first trimester.

Constipation

• Colace
• Metamucil

First Aid Ointment

• Bacitracin
• J&J First-Aid Cream
• Neosporin
• Polysporin

Rashes

• Benadryl cream
• Caladryl lotion or cream
• Hydrocortisone cream or ointment
• Oatmeal bath (Aveeno)

*Note: No drug can be considered 100% safe to use during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Taking medication during pregnancy can be concerning, but it's important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any medications. Follow dosage instructions carefully, avoid certain medications, and don't stop taking prescribed medications without talking to your healthcare provider. Use natural remedies with caution, and report any side effects to your healthcare provider immediately.