Which Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy?

(RxWiki News) Pregnancy is a very special time in a woman’s life. However, because some medications are safe during pregnancy and others are not, it can also be a confusing time.

But you can clear up the confusion. Although the over-the-counter medications listed below are generally safe to be taken during pregnancy, it’s extremely important that you always check with your doctor before taking any new medication during pregnancy:

• Allergies: antihistamines like Zyrtec and Claritin
• Common cold: Tylenol, Emergen-C
• Congestion: neti pot (Use only distilled water.), saline nasal spray
• Constipation: Peri-Colace, Colace, Milk of Magnesia, a teaspoon of coconut oil at night, Smooth Move Tea, probiotics
• Cough: cough drops (In some cases, your doctor may recommend guaifenesin, so it’s best to ask your doctor.)
• Diarrhea: Imodium
• Headache: Tylenol
• Heartburn: Zantac, Tums, proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec OTC (omeprazole)
• Hemorrhoids: Anusol Cream
• Itching or skin rash: hydrocortisone 1% cream, Caladryl lotion
• Nausea: vitamin B-6 (25 mg) three times a day, Preggie Pops Morning Sickness Relief
• Sore throat: throat lozenges, saltwater gargles, Tylenol
• Trouble sleeping: Melatonin (10 mg) 30 minutes before bedtime

Avoid taking any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, naproxen (Aleve) and ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), unless prescribed by your doctor.

Talk to your obstetrician if you have any questions about what medications you can safely take during pregnancy.

Written by Anyssa Garza, PharmD, BCMAS