Whats Safe and Unsafe:Medications

At some point during pregnancy, almost all women will develop an illness or condition that warrants the use of medication. Some medications have been proven safe for use during pregnancy, while others are not safe or have not been tested. Anytime medicine is needed during pregnancy, it is crucial for you to contact your health care provider. As a general guideline, medicine should only be taken when necessary. Women that were taking prescription medications before becoming pregnant should consult their health care provider as to whether they should continue taking the medication throughout pregnancy.

Prenatal vitamins are the only medications considered completely safe for use during pregnancy. Your health care provider can tell you whether or not a particular medication, herb or supplement is safe for use during pregnancy.

Although no medication is considered 100% safe to take during pregnancy, some medications for common illnesses have been approved for use during pregnancy and cause no known problem in a developing baby. However, a pregnant woman must follow the exact directions on the medication package. Do not take the SA form of medications or medications that are for multi-symptom without consulting your health care provider first.

Allergy- Benadryl

Colds and Flu- Acetominophen (Tylenol), Saline Nasal Spray, Sudafed, Dristan, Actifed, Robitussin DM, Vicks Cough Syrup, Halls Cough Drops

Constipation- Metamucil, Milk of Magnesia, Colace, Citrucil, Fiberall

Diarrhea- Immodium

First Aid Creams- Bacitracin, Neosporin

Headache- Acetominophen (Tylenol)

Heartburn- Tums, Mylanta, Maalox, Gaviscon, Titralac, Riopan

Hemorrhoids- Preparation H, Tucks, Witch Hazel

Nausea- Emetrol, Sea Bands, Emetrex, Vitamin B6

Rashes- Hydrocortisone Cream, Caladryl, Oatmeal Bath, Bendadryl Cream

Yeast Infection- Monistat, Terazol