Safe Medications for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The over-the-counter medications on this list are safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding when used as directed. In general it is best to avoid any medication while pregnant, especially in the first 12 weeks. However, if necessary, the medications below may be used. If you have symptoms requiring the use of these medicines for more than three days, please call us.

Anemia

Anemia is common during and after pregnancy. You may be asked to take an iron supplement. Remember that iron can be constipating. When taking iron you should increase your intake of fiber and fluids. Any of these supplements may be used.

Ferrous Sulfate                     Slow-FE                     Ferrosequels                     Feosol                     Ferrofolic 500

Colds/Sinus Congestion/Hay fever

The following medications may help to relieve the symptoms of cold or allergy. If you have a fever over 101F, please call. Do not use any cold preparations that contain alcohol. The following medicines are safe to use.

Actifed                     Sudafed                     Benadryl                     Alavert                     Chlor-Trimenton                     Tavist-D                     Claritin                     Mucinex

Cough

A cool mist humidifier may be helpful. Call if you have a fever over 101F with your cough. Do not use any cough medicine that contains alcohol. The following medicines are safe to use.

Benadryl Cough                     Robitussin DM                     Any cough drops

Constipation

Increase your intake of fiber and fluids. Exercise daily and use any of the following as needed.

Colace                     Senakot                     Konsyl                     Milk of Magnesia                     Metamucil                     Surfak                     Citracel                     Miralax

Diarrhea

Increase your fluid intake. Try the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast). If diarrhea persists for more than 24 to 36 hours, please call us. You may use the following as directed.

Kaopectate                     Immodium AD

Fever

Dress lightly, increase fluid intake, and take tepid baths. If you have a fever over 101F, please call us. Use as directed.

Tylenol                     Extra Strength Tylenol

Headaches

Try resting your eyes, dimming the lights, and using a cool compress on your neck and forehead. Call us if your headache is sever, affects your vision, or is not relieved by Tylenol. The following medicines may be used.

Tylenol                     Extra Strength Tylenol

Heartburn/Indigestion

Avoid spicy or fatty foods. Stay upright after eating. Eat small, frequent meals. You may use the following as directed.

Gaviscon                     Rolaids                     Maalox                     Tums                     Mylanta                     Zantac/Prilosec

Nausea/Vomiting

Eat small frequent meals. Keep something in your stomach. Avoid strong odors. Please call us if you are unable to keep anything down. You may use the following as directed.

Emetrol                     Ginger Tea                     Benadryl 25mg                     Peppermint Tea                     Red Raspberry –tea or capsule                     Lemonade & Potato Chips

Muscle Aches/Backache

Remember to use good posture and good body mechanics and a maternity support. Use the following as directed.

Tylenol                     Extra Strength Tylenol

Remember to take your prenatal vitamins!!!