Health & Pregnancy

Taking Medicine During Pregnancy

There may come a time during your pregnancy when you’re feeling under the weather and aren't sure if you can take your regular over-the-counter (OTC) medication. Some medications are safe to take during pregnancy. But others are not, or their effects on your baby may not be known.

When you meet with your doctor to confirm you're pregnant, ask what meds are OK to take and what meds you need to find alternatives for. Your health care provider will weigh the risks and benefits to help you know what's safe.

Also, tell your doctor about any alternative medicines or supplements you take, even if the label says "natural." And if you get any new prescriptions while you're pregnant, make sure the people who prescribe them know that you're pregnant.

What Medications Are Safe to Take During Pregnancy?

Prenatal vitamins are safe and important to take when you're pregnant. Ask your health care provider about the safety of taking other vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements. Most herbal preparations and supplements have not been proven to be safe during pregnancy.

Generally, you should not take any OTC medication while pregnant unless it is necessary.

The following medications and home remedies have no known harmful effects during pregnancy when taken according to the package directions. Contact your doctor for additional information on their safety or for medications not listed here.

Safe Medications to Take During Pregnancy*

Allergy

• Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
• Claritin

Check with your doctor before taking these in the first trimester.

Cold and Flu

• Tylenol (acetaminophen)
• Saline nasal drops or spray
• Warm salt/water gargle

Check with your doctor before taking any other medications, especially in the first trimester.

Constipation

• Colace
• Metamucil

First Aid Ointment

• Bacitracin
• J&J First-Aid Cream
• Neosporin
• Polysporin

Rashes

• Benadryl cream
• Caladryl lotion or cream
• Hydrocortisone cream or ointment
• Oatmeal bath (Aveeno)

*Note: No drug can be considered 100% safe to use during pregnancy.

What Alternative Therapies Are Considered Safe During Pregnancy?

Some alternative therapies have been shown to be safe and effective for pregnant women to relieve some of the uncomfortable side effects of pregnancy. Talk it over with your doctor first before using any of them. And remember, “Natural” doesn’t always equal “safe” when you’re pregnant.