Safe Medications During Pregnancy
Cold and flu season hits hard during the winter, and it puts our immune systems to work. For expecting mothers, whose immune systems are already compromised, its extra important to treat cold and flu symptoms cautiously when they appear.
Many over the counter medications can be safe, but make sure to read and understand all the ingredients, says Carol Rodriguez, MD, OBGYN at Rochester Regional Health. Generally, expecting mothers should try to minimize the amount of medication they take during pregnancy, but some medications are safe to take if youre fighting a cold or the flu.
The following list includes cold and flu symptom medications that are considered safe for consumption during pregnancy when following the package directions, as well as safe medications for heartburn, nausea, constipation, and other common pregnancy ailments.
*Always take the lowest dose that controls your symptoms. If you get no relief or have additional concerns, please call your physician.
**Avoid any unnecessary medications during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. The safest medications during the first trimester include Acetaminophen , saline nasal spray, Vicks, and throat lozenges.
Prenatal Yoga And Meditation
Prenatal yoga is a great way to relieve all types of body pains and headaches during pregnancy. It helps to stretch the muscles and relaxes the mind. Different breathing practices of yoga may help to alleviate headaches.
Meditation, on the other hand, helps to reduce anxiety, calms the body, and promotes overall wellbeing. Yoga and meditation also support better sleep, which can be quite helpful to minimize the different bodily pains and aches. However, you should do prenatal yoga only under proper guidance
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Can You Take Tylenol While Pregnant
As your pregnancy progresses, you may feel all sorts of unfamiliar aches and pains. Another not-so-fun fact: Expectant moms may be more susceptible to illnesses, since pregnancy actually suppresses your immune system. The list of what you can take when youre feeling under the weather is decidedly shorter these days, since many medicines arent considered pregnancy-safe. Heres the question so many moms-to-be are asking: Can you take Tylenol while pregnant?
Whether youre trying to stave off aches and pains or get relief from a cold or headache, you want to feel betterbut you dont want to harm your baby. Always discuss taking any medication, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements, with your doctor first. If theres a need for medical information, a reputable online source can give basic information, but a physicians input concerning what medications, if any, one should take while pregnant is worth its weight in gold, says Kecia Gaither, MD, a double board-certified physician in ob-gyn and maternal fetal medicine and director of perinatal services at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln in the Bronx, New York.
So whats the general consensus about taking Tylenol while pregnant? Heres what you need to know about using acetaminophen during pregnancy.
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What Happens If I Overdose
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of acetaminophen can be fatal.
The first signs of an acetaminophen overdose include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, sweating, and confusion or weakness. Later symptoms may include pain in your upper stomach, dark urine, and yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.
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Can I Take Cough Syrup While Pregnant
For a hacking cough, MacQuarrie says that syrups containing dextromethorphan can be taken as directed on the package if needed. Our general advice is the lowest dose possible for the shortest amount of time, she says. But she suggests first trying a lot of honey and water to suppress the cough reflex, which has been shown to be surprisingly effective.
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Tips To Consider Before Taking An Otc Drug
- Try nondrug measures. For complaints commonly handled by OTC products, nondrug measures can help alleviate symptoms without the risk. For example, stress busters such as massage, meditation, relaxation exercises, or even a walk around the block, can help with tension headaches. And rest, fluids, and chicken soup are a much safer way for pregnant women to deal with symptoms of a cold than antihistamines and decongestants.
- Consult your healthcare provider. Don’t take anything without first discussing it with your practitioner. There are trade-offs with OTC products, Mitchell said. You have to balance your need to take something with any possible risks.
- Avoid combination products. Multi-symptom cold and allergy medications typically contain ingredients from the off-limits list. For example, while Tylenol pain reliever is relatively safe for occasional use during pregnancy, Tylenol Sinus Congestion and Pain and Tylenol Cold Multi-Symptom liquid contain the decongestant phenylephrine, which is not.
- Read labels.Ingredients such as alcohol and caffeine turn up in surprising places. For example, Vicks Nyquil Cold & Flu Liquid contains alcohol. And CVS Aspirin-Free Tension Headache, is indeed, free of aspirin, but still contains caffeine.
When To Contact Your Doctor:
- If you are coughing up green or yellow mucus
- If you have a fever above 101° F
- If you cannot eat or sleep
If your infection is not improving, your doctor may prescribe medication. Your doctor will determine the best medication to take that is safe for you and your baby. While sinus infections are not fun, there are ways you can take care of yourself either through medication or home remedies to alleviate your symptoms and promote your recovery.
Want to Know More?
- Keep track of your medication by downloading the Fetal Life App for Apple and Android endorsed by the American Pregnancy Association. It features medicine tracking, meal recommendations, kicks counter, blood glucose tracking, and much more.
Compiled using information from the following sources:
1. Harms, R. W. . . Mayo Clinic guide to a healthy pregnancy . New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers Inc.
2. Jordan, R. G., Engstrom, J. L., Marfell, J. A., & Farley, C. L. . . Prenatal and postnatal care: A woman-centered approach. Ames, IA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
3. Larson, D. E. . . Mayo Clinic family health book: The ultimate illustrated home medical reference. New York, NY: William Morrow and Company, Inc.
4. Simkin, P., Whalley, J., & Keppler, A. . Pregnancy, childbirth, and the newborn: The complete guide. Gorham, K. . Deephaven, MN: Meadowbrook Press.
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Can Sinusitis Cause Miscarriage
Pregnant women who have a Sinus infection may suffer from pain in their babies. Infections of the sinus tract can cause miscarriage. Pregnant women who have a sinus infection are unlikely to harm their unborn babies. The symptoms of a sinus infection, however, can be complications during pregnancy in rare cases.
Cold Medications For Pregnancy And Breastfeeding
Selecting a cold medication while pregnant or breastfeeding that is going to be safe for both you and your baby can be stressful and overwhelming.
Here, you’ll find answers to your questions and information about common ingredients found in cold medicines that are considered safe for you and your baby.
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Cold And Flu During Pregnancy
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What Medicine Can I Take While Pregnant? | Womens Care
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Tylenol Pm During Pregnancy
Tylenol PM is actually a combination of two drugs: acetaminophen and diphenhydramine . Both drugs are considered safe for short-term, occasional, provider-approved use while pregnant. The suggested dosage for adults is two caplets at bedtime, with no more than two caplets in a 24-hour period. Long term use is not recommended for anyone.
If youre having a lot of trouble sleeping or experiencing frequent insomnia, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider to find ways of helping you get the rest you need.
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Is Acetaminophen/paracetamol Safe To Take While Pregnant
Acetaminophen is undoubtedly one of the most commonly used over-the-counter drugs available. Its also known as paracetamol, and the medication can be used to treat a variety of mild to moderate forms of pain. For example, acetaminophen and paracetamol are often used to treat aches and pains from illnesses like the cold or flu, headaches, osteoarthritis and tooth pain. Acetaminophen and paracetamol can also be used as a fever-reducer. Acetaminophen is the active ingredient in Tylenol, and its also included in different cold and flu combination medications sold over-the-counter. Acetaminophen is sometimes combined with stronger, narcotic pain relievers such as an opioid in prescription drugs. Since acetaminophen is used so often, most people view it as inherently safe, and for the most part, thats true. However, what about during pregnancy? Can you take Tylenol while pregnant? The information regarding the use of Tylenol while pregnant varies somewhat.
How Does Acetaminophen Affect A Fetus
For many years, acetaminophen and brand-name versions like Tylenol were considered almost completely safe for use during pregnancy. However, new reports have created a different perspective. For example, there was a study released in 2016 which linked the use of acetaminophen while pregnant to future behavior problems in children. Acetaminophen became looked at as one of the many medications that when used during pregnancy may be linked to delayed language skills, autism symptoms, ADHD and asthma. This study looked at the use of acetaminophen while pregnant at 18 and 32 weeks, and then looked at the children when they were five years old. The children whose mothers used acetaminophen during pregnancy were around 1.4 times more likely to have behavioral problems. They were 1.3 times more likely to be hyperactive.
Its important to note the most recent studies dont show acetaminophen or paracetamol cause these problems but only that there may be a link. A 2014 study looked at 871 children and linked acetaminophen to ADHD symptoms in children aged seven and 11. Some animal studies have shown a link between acetaminophen-based medications and abnormalities in brain development. There was a study in Norway of 53,000 children that showed a possible link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and childhood asthma.
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What Can Take For A Cold While Breastfeeding
Simple diphenhydramine and guaifenesin are fine, says Ross. And you can take ibuprofen and aspirin while breastfeeding, which were a no-no for pregnant women.
Keeping this in consideration, what is safe to take for a cold while breastfeeding?
Over-the-counter drugs containing dextromethorphan, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen are safe to take while breastfeeding. Pseudoephedrine is likely safe while breastfeeding, but may cause a decrease in late-stage milk production so should be taken with caution in mothers struggling to produce milk.
Similarly, what cold and flu tablets can I take when breastfeeding? Single ingredient products are usually preferred for short term use at the recommended doses. If you are feeling very unwell because of a cold, the flu or sinus problems, you should contact your doctor. For a dry cough, a cough suppressant such as pholcodine or dextromethorphan is considered safe while breastfeeding.
Correspondingly, can you take cold medication while breastfeeding?
But theres good news: Many of the cold and flu medications that were off-limits during pregnancy are fine to take while breastfeeding. Heres the lowdown on whats safebut always speak to your doctor before taking any new medications or natural remedies.
Can a baby catch a cold from breastfeeding?
Pregnancy And Otc Cough Cold And Analgesic Preparations
Benefits Versus RisksIn the United States, about 150,000 babies are born each year with birth defects.7 Birth defects can occur due to many nonpharmacologic factors. Some of the most common defects are spina bifida, microtia, hypoplastic left heart, cleft palate, cleft lip, esophageal atresia, anencephaly, omphalocele, and limb reduction.7 Practitioners must weigh the benefits versus the risks when recommending OTC analgesics and cough and cold preparations to pregnant women. Since ailments treated with OTC and herbal products in pregnant women are not usually life-threatening, practitioners should also consider suggesting nonpharmacologic remedies, such as rest and fluids.This article presents information on some common OTC analgesic and cough and cold preparations available. Each section discusses the product, pregnancy category, information regarding safety data in pregnancy, dosing, side effects, and contraindications. The comparison of risks and benefits must be considered for each individual patient. Information relating to when patients should refer to a physician is included to assist with the decision-making process.
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How Should I Take Tylenol Cold & Flu Severe
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. This medicine is usually taken only for a short time until your symptoms clear up.
Do not take more of this medication than recommended. An acetaminophen overdose can damage your liver or cause death.
Do not give this medication to a child younger than 4 years old. Always ask a doctor before giving cough or cold medicine to a child. Death can occur from the misuse of cough or cold medicine in very young children.
Measure liquid medicine with a special dose measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Dissolve one packet of the powder in at least 8 ounces of hot water. Stir and sip drink immediately while the liquid is hot.
Do not take for longer than 7 days in a row. Stop taking the medicine and call your doctor if you still have a fever after 3 days of use, you still have pain after 7 days , if your symptoms get worse, or if you have a skin rash, ongoing headache, or any redness or swelling.
If you need surgery or medical tests, tell the surgeon or doctor ahead of time if you have taken this medicine within the past few days.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not allow liquid medicine to freeze.
Avoid Ibuprofen And Aspirin In Pregnancy
When it comes to over-the-counter pain relievers, Tylenol is most recommended. Other pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen are not recommended by doctors for typical pregnancy aches and pains.
Ibuprofen is off limits completely, Laursen says. Likewise, aspirin is not recommended, unless prescribed by your doctor. For example, a doctor may recommend a small daily dose of aspirin to some women to decrease their risk of preeclampsia. But if you’re pregnant, don’t take aspirin without consulting your doctor first.
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How Can I Prevent The Flu During Pregnancy
There are many steps that can be taken as precautionary measures to prevent the flu. A few of these simple steps include regularly washing your hands, healthy eating habits, getting plenty of sleep, and staying away from those who have the flu. The CDC recommends getting your flu vaccination as the most effective way to prevent getting the flu while pregnant.
What Can You Do To Feel Better If You Get A Cold During Pregnancy
Although many of the medications that relieve cold symptoms are typically off-limits during pregnancy, you dont have to suffer with a runny nose and hacking cough when youre pregnant. Some of the most effective cold remedies dont come from the pharmacy shelf. Heres how to feel better faster:
What to Expect selects products based on independent research and suggestions from our community of millions of parents learn more about our review process. We may earn commissions from shopping links.
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What Other Drugs Will Affect Tylenol Cold & Flu Severe
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine if you are also using any other drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used together. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.
Taking this medicine with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can worsen these effects. Ask your doctor before taking acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine with a sleeping pill, narcotic pain medicine, muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or seizures.
A Special Consideration: Whooping Cough
Whooping cough is a contagious infection that is characterized by excessive, violent coughing followed by an intake of breath that makes a whooping sound. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention is now recommending that all pregnant women receive the Tdap vaccine during each of their pregnancies, preferably between the 27th-36th weeks of pregnancy.This will ensure that protection against whooping cough is passed down to your baby for the first couple of months after birth. Since your child will not receive their first whooping cough vaccine until they are 2 months old, getting this vaccine while you are pregnant will ensure your infant is protected until then. Learn more about taking vaccinations during your pregnancy.
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Acetaminophen / Dextromethorphan / Guaifenesin / Phenylephrine Pregnancy And Breastfeeding Warnings
Acetaminophen / dextromethorphan / guaifenesin / phenylephrine is also known as: Adult Cold, Flu & Sore Throat, Alka-Seltzer Plus Severe Cough, Mucus & Congestion Liquid Gels, Cough & Cold Relief, CounterAct Day, , Delsym Cough+ Cold Day Time, Mucinex Children’s Cold, Cough & Sore Throat, Mucinex Children’s FreeFrom Multi-Symptom Cold, Flu & Sore Throat, Mucinex Children’s Multi-Symptom Cold & Fever, Mucinex Fast-Max Cold, Flu & Sore Throat, Mucinex Fast-Max Cold, Flu & Sore Throat Liquid Gels, Mucinex Fast-Max Day Time Severe Cold, Mucinex Fast-Max Severe Cold, Mucinex Fast-Max Severe Congestion & Cold, Mucinex Sinus-Max Pressure, Pain & Cough, Non-Pseudo Cold Relief, Robitussin Severe Multi-Symptom Cough Cold + Flu, Rompe Pecho MAX, Sudafed PE Cold & Cough, Sudafed PE Head Congestion + Flu Severe, Tylenol Cold & Flu Severe, Tylenol Cold + Mucus Severe, Tylenol Cold Head Congestion Severe , Tylenol Cold Multi-Symptom Severe, Vicks DayQuil Severe Cold & Flu
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 29, 2021.