What medications are acceptable during pregnancy?

The question of whether medications and supplements are safe for use during pregnancy is one that many expectant mothers have. This is especially true for over-the-counter (OTC) medications, which are often assumed to be safe without a prescription. Delsym is an OTC medication used to treat coughs and colds. In this blog post, we’ll explore the question of whether it’s safe to take Delsym while pregnant or not. We’ll look at the active ingredients of Delsym as well as federal regulations on the use of such medications during pregnancy. We’ll also provide guidance on the best course of action if you’re considering taking Delsym while pregnant. By the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of the risks and benefits associated with taking Delsym while pregnant.

* adapted from Niebyl. “Management of Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy: A Clinical Perspective”. Academy for Healthcare Education. Nov. 2002 pp. 6-9.

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Tylenol (acetaminophen), Benadryl, and magnesium up to 20 weeks of pregnancy Tylenol and Motrin may be used together. Take Tylenol and Motrin along with a caffeinated beverage to ease a migraine headache.

No medication has been thoroughly studied before being used during pregnancy, according to the general disclaimer. No study could account for all the human development factors that are relevant to the particular drug. That being said, avoid taking unnecessary medications. During the first eight weeks of pregnancy, this is crucial. Anti-depressants, anti-hypertensives, and thyroid medications, to name a few, are examples of long-term prescription drugs that will continue to be taken because they are important for the mother’s health during pregnancy. Sometimes, a medication will be changed to a safer alternative. Specific questions regarding medications can be handled at clinic appointments.

(If symptoms are severe and there are no warning signs, such as a fever, bloody diarrhea, or weight loss, you may proceed with these instructions. ).

Cold medications that are okay to take during pregnancy

The following medications are generally regarded as safe to use while expecting because they have either been studied or used frequently in pregnant women:

  • Acetaminophin to relieve pain and reduce fevers. Its best to take the minimum effective dose for only as long as you need it, and to never exceed the recommended maximum dosage per day.
  • Antihistamines to relieve nasal congestion. Antihistamines that are considered safe for pregnant women include:
    • Chlorpheniramine
    • Loratadine
    • Cetirizine
    • Dexchlorpheniramine
    • Doxylamine
    • Diphenhydramine (this common medication should only be used during the third trimester when prescribed by your doctor because it may cause uterine contractions)
  • The cough suppressant dextromethorphan is often found in over-the-counter cold medicines like Robitussin and is considered safe for pregnant women.
  • Cough drops with benzocaine or menthol are usually approved for use during pregnancy. Benzocaine doesnt get into the bloodstream, so its very unlikely to pose a risk to a developing baby. Menthol is unlikely to cause problems during pregnancy, as long as its used as recommended.
  • Decongestant corticosteroid nasal sprays are usually considered safe for use over a short period of time. Nasal strips, saline nasal sprays, and Neti pots are the safest options to use during pregnancy, as they dont contain any medications.
  • Decongestant chest rub with camphor oil (such as Vicks) is generally considered safe if used on the skin as directed, though it isnt an effective decongestant. The ingredients in a chest rub might feel nice and make you feel like youre breathing easier, though.
  • Benefit should outweigh risk Excreted into human milk: Unknown Excreted into animal milk: No data available Comments: -This drug’s excretion into breast milk has not been studied, but typical doses are unlikely to harm a nursing infant, particularly infants older than 2 months -Because many cough syrups contain alcohol, make sure to read labels and stay away from products that contain alcohol.

    There is no evidence that using antitussives while pregnant increases the risk of teratogenic effects. However, there are no controlled data in human pregnancy. A large number of pregnant women and women who are childbearing age have taken drugs in the AU TGA pregnancy category A without any increase in the frequency of malformations or other direct or indirect harmful effects on the fetus having been proven.

    FAQ

    What category is delsym for pregnancy?

    Dextromethorphan is equipotent to codeine as an antitussive and is a pregnancy category C medication. Dextromethorphan exposure in the first trimester has been studied, and no increased risk of malformations was detected.

    Which cough syrup is safe during pregnancy?

    Cough medicine

    Expectorants like Mucinex, cough suppressants like Robitussin, vapor rubs like Vicks VapoRub, and cough drops are all considered safe during pregnancy.

    Can delsym cause birth defects?

    Taking dextromethorphan as directed will not cause a fetus to have birth defects.

    Is delsym 12 hour safe during pregnancy?

    During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

    Medication for Cold during Pregnancy

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