Which OTC Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? We hear this question all the time, and with good reason.
It’s important for your baby’s health and development to know which common medications are safe during pregnancy (and which ones to avoid). But to be safe, always consult with your doctor or pharmacist first!
Pain Relief: Aches and pains are par for the course, but you don’t have to suffer. Stick with Acetaminophen (Tylenol).
Allergies: Antihistamines like Claritin and Zyrtec are safe to use as needed.
Colds: A saline nasal spray or neti pot can work wonders. But when you need more relief, an expectorant like Mucinex is OK — just make sure it doesn’t contain a decongestant as well.
Sleep Aids: Get all the ZZZZs you need using melatonin or even Benadryl.
Nausea: Doxylamine (A.K.A. Unisom) can actually relieve morning sickness! Crazy, right?
Other commonly needed products that are A-OK:
– Stool softeners (we never said pregnancy is glamorous).
– Antacids — such as Tums — for heartburn.
– Vitamin B6 — an important nutrient for baby with the added bonus of relieving nausea.
– Prenatal vitamins — these are essential for baby’s health!
Medications that are NOT safe for pregnancy:
– Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin)
– Naproxen (Aleve)
– Ephedrine (found in some nasal decongestants)- Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol)
