Most medicines taken during pregnancy cross the placenta and reach the baby. Women are usually advised to avoid medicines during pregnancy, if possible, especially during the first 3 months. That is when a baby’s organs form. But sometimes you have to take medicine to treat a health problems. When deciding whether to take a medicine during pregnancy, it’s important to find out about the possible effects of that medicine on your baby.
Before taking any medicine when you’re pregnant, including painkillers, check with your doctor.
Medications Are Safe to Take During Pregnancy
The following OTC medications have no known harmful effects during pregnancy when taken according to the package directions.
Allergy
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Loratadine (Claritin)
Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
Rashes
Diphenhydramine cream (Benadryl)
Hydrocortisone cream or ointment
Oatmeal bath (Aveeno)
Cold and Flu
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Dextromethorphan (Robitussin)
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Saline nasal drops or spray
Headache
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Sleep
Diphenhydramine (Unisom SleepGels, Benadryl)
Heartburn
Famotidine (Pepcid AC)
Aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide (Maalox)
Calcium carbonate/magnesium carbonate (Mylanta)
Calcium carbonate (Titralac)
Ranitidine (Zantac)
Nausea and Vomiting
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Vitamin B6
Diarrhea
Loperamide ([Imodium] after 1st trimester, for 24 hours only)
Constipation
Methylcellulose fiber (Citrucel)
Docusate (Colace)
psyllium (Fiberall, Metamucil)
polycarbophil (FiberCon)
Hemorrhoids
Phenylephrine/mineral oil/petrolatum (Preparation H)
Witch hazel (Tucks pads or ointment)
First Aid Ointment
Bacitracin
Neomycin/polymyxin B/bacitracin (Neosporin)
Insect repellant
N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET)
Yeast Infection M
Miconazole (Monistat)
Note: No drug can be considered 100% safe to use during pregnancy.
Prescription medications you’re already taking
Before pregnancy, you may already be taking prescription medications for thyroid issues, high blood pressure, or other conditions. Speak with your doctor about continuing these medications, especially if you’re already pregnant. In many cases, you may safely take your medication during pregnancy. Sometimes you may need to either adjust dosages or switch to another medication that’s considered safer for you and baby.