Medication and Pregnancy

Medication & Pregnancy

As a general rule, no drug should be taken during pregnancy unless the benefit of that medication is significant. The first 12 weeks of a pregnancy are the most crucial time for development of the baby. Therefore, no medications (other than prenatal vitamins) should be taken unless the benefit outweighs the risks.

Medications safe to take during pregnancy:

Headache, FeverTylenol
Cold, Stuffy Nose, CoughSaline Nasal Spray, Neti Pot, Sudafed (only AFTER first trimester), Mucinex
AllergiesBenadryl, Zyrtec, Claritin
Sore ThroatCepacol, Chloraseptic Lozenges
HeartburnTums, Mylanta, Maalox, Pepcid, Zantac, Tagamet
GasGas-X, Phazyme
ConstipationMetamucil, Colace, Surfak, Milk of Magnesia, Miralax, Dulcolax Suppository
DiarrheaImmodium
HemorrhoidsTucks, Anusol HC, Preparation H
Rash, Poison IvyBenadryl, Hydrocortisone Ointment


Multivitamins, Mineral Supplements, and Low-Dose Aspirin:


Skincare Products:

The following are minimally absorbed into the bloodstream following topical use, so are likely safe to useduring pregnancy:


Avoid the following skincare products:


Also Avoid:

You Might Also Enjoy...

What Is the Next Step After an Abnormal Pap Smear?

As National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month reminds us, routine Pap smears are important for good health. But what happens if your tests come back abnormally? Learn more about what to expect following an abnormal Pap smear.
C-Section, Emil W. Tajzoy, MD, PLLC

When Should You Consider a Planned C-Section?

The decision to deliver vaginally or by cesarean section is something to think about leading up to your delivery date. Learn more about elective and medically necessary C-sections to ensure you’re making the right choice for you and your baby.

When Do Ovarian Cysts Need to Be Removed?

Your doctor said you have ovarian cysts. Does that mean they need to be removed? If they’re causing pain, growing larger, or at risk for becoming cancerous, they should be.