During pregnancy, it is natural to be cautious about the medications you take. This guide outlines common over-the-counter (OTC) options that have a long history of safe use during pregnancy.
General Guidelines: * Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
- Always follow the dosage instructions on the product packaging.
- Do not exceed the maximum daily recommended dose.
If you have specific questions or concerns about a medication, please call our office or schedule an appointment to discuss them with your provider.
Common Ailments & Approved Treatments
Pain, Fever or Headache
- Safe: Tylenol (acetaminophen) is the preferred choice during pregnancy.
- Avoid: Advil (ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen) and Aspirin.
Nasal Congestion, Sinus & Allergy
- Safe: Sudafed (pseudoephedrine), Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Claritin (loratadine), Claritin-D and Zyrtec.
Cough & Cold
- Safe: Robitussin DM (dextromethorphan) and Mucinex (guaifenesin).
Nausea & Heartburn
- Mild Nausea: Peppermint gum or candies and Emetrol.
- Persistent Nausea: Vitamin B6 (10–25 mg three times daily), which can be combined with Unisom (doxylamine) ½ or ¼ tablet.
- Heartburn: Tums/Rolaids (calcium carbonate) or Maalox/Mylanta for occasional relief. For more frequent or severe symptoms, Zantac 360 (famotidine) is safe to use.
Digestive Health
- Constipation: Increased intake of prunes or prune juice, Metamucil (psyllium fiber), Colace (docusate) and Milk of Magnesia.
- Diarrhea: Focus on hydration with Pedialyte, water and a bland diet. You may take 1–2 doses of Imodium if necessary. Please contact the office if diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours.
Comfort & Targeted Relief
- Muscle or Leg Cramps: Epsom salt soaks, massage and heating pads are safe.
- Hemorrhoids: Preparation H products (cream or suppositories) and Tucks Pads (witch hazel).
- Yeast Infections: Monistat-3 (3-day treatment) is safe to use in any trimester.
