While colds, congestion and coughs can be unpleasant, they are even more frustrating when you are pregnant. These are the safest ways to feel better quicker.
Pregnancy is not without its challenges. However, before you rush to grab that over-the–counter medicine, be sure to learn which medications can be safely taken mucinex during pregnancy
.
Most over-the–counter medications can be safely used in mucinex during pregnancy. However, there are some surprising drugs that can cause harm to the baby. Make sure you consult your doctor before taking any prescription, over the counter or herbal/homeopathic medication. You should also follow the directions on the package.
It is possible for certain symptoms, such as a headache, to be indicative of a more serious pregnancy-related condition. Be aware of any other medications you may be taking before you consider taking an over-the-counter drug. Even medications considered safe during pregnancy may be unsafe if they interact with other medications. Your ob/gyn will be able to tell you if there are any questions.
Here are some common problems during pregnancy, as well as a summary of potentially dangerous medicines.
Aches and Pains
Acetaminophen is OK to take for general aches, pains, and migraines. Avoid non-steroidal-anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like ibuprofen, Motrin, and Advil. OTC drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin) can cause congenital cardiac defects in babies if they are taken in the first trimester. Also, these OTC drugs can cause other abnormalities in the heart and low levels for amniotic material when they are used during the third trimester.
Congestion and allergic symptoms
For congestion antihistamines such a diphenhydramine(Benadryl), and loratidine [Claritin] appear to be safe mucinex during pregnancy. Avoid pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), as it can be linked to birth defects of the baby’s abdominal Wall. Decongestants such as phenylephrine may reduce blood flow to baby’s placenta. This should be avoided all through your pregnancy.
Cough
Two major cough medication ingredients–dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant) and guaifenesin (an expectorant, which means it loosens up thick mucus)–both appear to be safe during pregnancy, although both have been tested in relatively few studies.
Constipation
Metamucil and stool-softeners like Colace can be used to alleviate constipation. Your doctor should be consulted before you start using laxatives or rectal suppositories.
Heartburn
Mylanta, Tums, and Mylanta are both safe in pregnancy. For most women, they improve heartburn symptoms. Talk to your doctor about Pepcid, which crosses the placenta without causing any complications. While ranitidine, (Zantac), had been previously considered safe during pregnancy. However, the FDA discovered low levels of a cancer-causing contaminant within samples of the drug. In 2019, the FDA voluntarily recalled the medications.
Even with all this being said, there are instances when the possible benefit of medication is greater than any potential risks to baby. Talking to your doctor is the most important advice about medication.
Ashley Roman MD, an ob/gyn specialist and maternal-fetal healthcare specialist at NYU Langone, New York City. Tulane University in 1998 awarded her a medical degree. She is a member of the “Best Doctors in America” database since 2007.
Updated January 20, 2020
*Please note that The Bump and its materials and information are not meant to provide medical or other type of diagnosis or advice and should not ever be used in this way. To discuss your specific situation, consult with a licensed physician or other qualified health professional.
