
When you're pregnant, your baby is exposed to everything you are, including any medication you take. While it's always best to avoid taking medication when possible, there are some over-the-counter (OTC) flu medications that are considered safe for most pregnant people. These include acetaminophen (Tylenol), which is safe during the entire pregnancy, and antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton). Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is also considered safe during pregnancy, but only in the second and third trimesters. It is not safe to take during the first trimester due to a small risk of abdominal wall birth defects. It is also not safe if you have high blood pressure or a history of heart disease. It's important to carefully follow the package directions and to talk to your doctor or midwife before taking any medication during pregnancy.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Safe Flu Medicine During Pregnancy | Acetaminophen (Tylenol), Saline Nasal Drops or Spray, Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), Dextromethorphan (Robitussin), Guaifenesin (Mucinex), Loratadine (Claritin), Cetirizine (Zyrtec) |
Natural Remedies | Warm Salt Water Gargle, Honey in Hot Water, Nasal Saline Sprays, Humidifier, Saline-Based Nose Drops, Flu Shot |
Medication to Avoid During Pregnancy | Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Naproxen (Aleve), Aspirin (Bayer), Benzocaine (Throat Lozenges/Sprays), Codeine, Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE), Triamcinolone (Nasacort), Syrups Containing Ethanol |
What You'll Learn
Natural remedies vs medication
When you're pregnant, it's important to be cautious about the medications you take, as your baby will be exposed to everything you are. While it's always best to consult your doctor or midwife, here's a comparison of natural remedies and medication for treating the flu during pregnancy.
Natural Remedies
Natural remedies are a great way to alleviate flu symptoms without resorting to medication. Here are some safe, natural remedies to try:
- Gargle warm salt water
- Get plenty of restful sleep
- Sip honey in hot water
- Use nasal saline sprays
- Drink plenty of fluids, such as herbal tea, juice, or chicken soup broth
- Eat nourishing foods, such as raw or lightly cooked fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains
- Take daily supplements, such as vitamin C, vitamin D3, and zinc
- Try homeopathic remedies, such as Belladonna or Aconite, for quick and natural healing
Medication
If natural remedies don't provide enough relief, there are some over-the-counter medications that are considered safe for most pregnant patients. However, it's important to consult your doctor or midwife before taking any medication during pregnancy. Some safe options include:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) – safe during the entire pregnancy, but take only as needed and avoid if you have liver problems
- Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) – safe in the second and third trimesters, but not in the first due to a small risk of abdominal wall birth defects
- Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton) – safe during pregnancy, but not while breastfeeding
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) – safe throughout pregnancy, but watch out for extra ingredients
It's important to note that while these medications are generally considered safe, you should always read the directions on the package and consult your healthcare provider before taking anything. Additionally, some medications should be avoided during pregnancy, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin, as they can harm the developing baby.
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Safe over-the-counter medications
When you're pregnant, your baby is exposed to everything you are, including any medication you take. While it's always best to avoid taking medication when possible, over-the-counter drugs can help soothe your symptoms while you wait for your immune system to fight off the infection. Here are some safe over-the-counter medications to take during pregnancy:
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is considered safe during the entire pregnancy, but only take it as needed and limit regular exposure. It is not safe if you are allergic to it or have liver problems. Acetaminophen is the first-choice medication for pain relief in pregnant people.
Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is safe in the second and third trimesters. However, it is not safe in the first trimester due to a small risk of abdominal wall birth defects. It is also not safe if you have high blood pressure or a history of heart disease.
Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton) is safe during pregnancy but not while breastfeeding. It is a first-choice option to relieve a runny nose while pregnant.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is safe throughout pregnancy. It is an older (first-generation) antihistamine that can cause drowsiness, so it's best taken at bedtime.
Dextromethorphan (Robitussin) is a cough suppressant that can help reduce coughing. It is generally safe to take during pregnancy, and studies of pregnant women taking dextromethorphan did not find a link between its use and birth defects.
Guaifenesin (Mucinex) is an expectorant that helps thin mucus in the lungs so it can be coughed up more easily. Research on guaifenesin during pregnancy is limited, so it's best to avoid it during the first trimester. It may be an option in the second and third trimesters, but check with your doctor first.
Loratadine (Claritin) is a newer (second-generation) antihistamine that is recommended after the first trimester. These newer antihistamines are less likely to cause bothersome side effects.
Steroid-based nasal sprays are generally considered safe during pregnancy and can help with congestion.
Honey in hot water is a natural remedy that can help suppress coughing.
It's important to always read the package directions carefully and talk to your doctor or midwife before taking any medication during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, which is a crucial time in your baby's development.
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Medications to avoid
It is important to note that rules regarding pregnancy medications are constantly changing, and it is always best to consult a doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy. The following is a list of medications that are generally considered unsafe to take during pregnancy:
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Naproxen (Aleve, Midol, Naprosyn), Diclofenac (Cambia, Cataflam), and Aspirin (Bayer) are not recommended during pregnancy. NSAIDs are associated with an increased risk of life-threatening kidney problems and heart defects in the developing fetus, especially if taken after the 20-week mark.
Antibiotics
Some antibiotics have been linked to adverse reactions in pregnant women and an increased risk of miscarriage. These include:
- Chloramphenicol: Can cause serious blood disorders and gray baby syndrome.
- Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) and levofloxacin: May cause problems with the baby's muscle and skeletal growth, joint pain, and potential nerve damage in the mother.
- Primaquine: Animal studies suggest it is harmful to developing fetuses and can damage blood cells in a fetus.
- Sulfonamides: Can cause jaundice in newborns and increase the risk of miscarriage.
- Trimethoprim (Primsol): Can cause neural tube defects, affecting brain development in the fetus.
Codeine
Codeine is a prescription drug used to relieve pain and as a cough medicine. It has the potential to become habit-forming and can lead to withdrawal symptoms in newborns.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Warfarin is a blood thinner used to treat and prevent blood clots. It is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and problems with the fetus's nose, eyes, and nervous system. It may also cause blindness and intellectual disabilities if taken during the second and third trimesters.
Clonazepam (Klonopin)
Clonazepam is used to prevent seizures, panic disorders, anxiety attacks, and panic attacks. Taking this medication during pregnancy can lead to withdrawal symptoms in newborns.
Lorazepam (Ativan)
Lorazepam is used to treat anxiety and other mental health disorders. It has been linked to birth defects and life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in newborns.
Carbamazepine and Other Anti-Seizure Medications
These medications have a high risk of birth defects and are considered Pregnancy Category D. They can cause male genital issues and developmental problems after birth.
Lisinopril and Certain Other Blood Pressure Medications
These include angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). They are considered Pregnancy Category D medications and can harm a fetus's kidneys and affect amniotic fluid levels, which are important for lung and skeleton development.
Retinoids
Isotretinoin (Absorica, Claravis) and other retinoids can cause brain, nerve, and heart abnormalities in the fetus, as well as increase the risk of miscarriage and premature birth.
Fluoroquinolones
These antibiotics, including Ciprofloxacin (Cipro), have been linked to birth defects in animal studies. There is insufficient data from human studies to determine their safety during pregnancy.
Sudafed and Other Nasal Decongestants
There is limited data on the safety of pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) during pregnancy, and it is classified as a Pregnancy Category C medication. Some studies have linked it to a higher risk of birth defects, and it is advised to avoid it during the first trimester.
Benzodiazepines
Drugs such as alprazolam (Xanax) and clonazepam (Klonopin) are considered Pregnancy Category D or X medications. They have been linked to developmental issues affecting the fetus's brain, esophagus, and heart, as well as lower birth weights and premature births. They can also lead to withdrawal symptoms in newborns.
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Antibiotics
When you're pregnant, it's important to be cautious about the medications you take, as your baby will be exposed to anything you ingest. While it's best to avoid taking medication when possible, sometimes it is necessary to treat infections and other illnesses. If you have the flu, it's important to seek treatment to reduce symptoms and prevent complications that may affect fetal development.
Some antibiotics that are generally considered safe during pregnancy include:
- Penicillin-based antibiotics, such as amoxicillin and ampicillin, are often recommended for treating bacterial infections in pregnant women. They are effective against a wide range of bacteria and are less likely to cause side effects compared to other options.
- Cephalosporins are another type of antibiotic that may be prescribed during pregnancy. They are effective against various bacterial infections and have a relatively low risk of side effects.
- Streptomycin and kanamycin are known to be teratogenic, which means they can cause harm to the developing fetus. These antibiotics have been linked to potential hearing loss in the fetus.
- Tetracycline is another antibiotic that should be avoided during pregnancy. It can lead to weakening, hypoplasia, and discolouration of long bones and teeth in the developing fetus.
- Erythromycin has been associated with an increased risk of cerebral palsy in the fetus when exposed in the setting of intact membranes.
- Co-amoxiclav has also been linked to a higher risk of cerebral palsy and necrotizing enterocolitis in the fetus.
It's important to remember that the benefits and risks of taking antibiotics during pregnancy must be carefully weighed by a medical professional. Your doctor will consider factors such as the type of infection, the severity of your condition, and the potential side effects of the medication before prescribing any antibiotics.
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When to seek medical advice
Pregnant women are more susceptible to the flu and its severe effects. It is important to know when to seek medical advice to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the baby. Here are some guidelines on when to seek medical attention:
- Early symptoms: If you are experiencing early flu symptoms, such as a fever of 100°F (37.8°C) or higher, vomiting, diarrhoea, or other flu-like symptoms, contact your healthcare provider right away. Testing and treatment should not be delayed, as early intervention is crucial.
- Severe symptoms: Seek emergency medical attention if you are pregnant and experience severe symptoms such as chest pain or pressure, decreased or no fetal movement, dizziness, confusion, extreme weakness, high fever unresponsive to medication, lack of urine output, persistent chest or abdominal pain, or difficulty breathing. These symptoms could indicate serious complications, and prompt medical attention is crucial.
- Close contact with the flu: If you have been in close contact with someone who has the flu, consult your healthcare provider. They can advise you on whether you should take preventative antiviral medication to reduce your risk of infection.
- Prolonged illness: If your flu symptoms persist or worsen after a week of treatment, contact your healthcare provider. They may need to adjust your treatment plan or rule out other potential causes of your prolonged illness.
- Medication concerns: If you are unsure about the safety of any medication during pregnancy, always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking it. This includes over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, and herbal or complementary products. It is important to get medical advice to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.
- Flu prevention: Consult your healthcare provider about getting a flu vaccine, especially if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the flu season. The flu vaccine is generally recommended for pregnant women and can significantly reduce the risk of flu and related complications.
Remember, when in doubt, always seek medical advice. Your healthcare provider can guide you through the best course of action to protect your health and that of your baby.
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Frequently asked questions
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is considered safe for pregnant people. Other options include antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl), most steroid-based nasal sprays, and some cough medications.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) should be avoided. Other medications to avoid include pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) in the first trimester, and phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) at any time during pregnancy.
Yes, there are several natural remedies that can help alleviate flu symptoms during pregnancy. These include getting plenty of rest, drinking honey in hot water, using saline nasal sprays, and gargling with warm salt water.
It is important to consult a doctor or midwife before taking any medication during pregnancy. Always read the package directions carefully and take the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible.