What Cough Medicine Is Safe While Pregnant

Safe Cough And Sore Throat Remedies During Pregnancy

Cough Medicine During Pregnancy
  • Honey
  • Dextromethorphan or Dextromethorphan-guaifenesin, such as Robitussin and Robitussin DM. 120 mg in 24 hours
  • Nasal drops or sprays
  • Acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, for aches, pains, sore throat and fever
  • Salt water gargling
  • Menthol rub on chest, temples and under the nose
  • Chloraseptic spray
  • Nasal strips
  • Cough drops or lozenges containing benzocaine
  • Expectorant during the day

Cough and Flu Medications to Avoid During Pregnancy

  • Aspirin
  • Bactrim, an antibiotic

Safe Yeast Infection Remedies During Pregnancy

The American Pregnancy Association recommends vaginal creams and suppositories but warns that not all are safe during pregnancy. So, consult your doctor. Most likely, your doctor will recommend:

  • Clotrimazole
  • Terconazole

It may feel like navigating a minefield to understand which medications are safe to take during pregnancy, but the efforts become worth it when you meet your healthy baby for the first time. Be careful and consciousness with over-the-counter medications during pregnancy, and ask your doctor if you have any questions. And remember to get your flu shot from your AWH Dallas practitioner.

Can You Take Antibiotics While Pregnant

Home remedies for strep throat during pregnancy

  • Gargle with warm salt water to help your sore throat feel better.
  • Avoid cold liquids, which can aggravate a sore throat. Instead, try caffeine-free herbal teas, such as chamomile or lemon tea with cinnamon.
  • Get plenty of rest to allow your body to heal.
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    Cough Medicines For Pregnant Women

    Experiencing a cough while pregnant can cause physical discomfort and generate concern. When simple measures, like sucking on cough drops or sipping hot tea, fail to suppress a cough, some mothers-to-be seek relief with over-the-counter or prescription cough medicine. The safety of different types of cough medicine for pregnant women varies, depending primarily on the specific drug or drugs in the medication and how far along the pregnancy is. Pregnant women with a cough should consult their healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits before taking cough medicine and to determine whether they need to be seen for further evaluation of their cough.

    If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

    Does A Cough And Cold During Pregnancy Affect The Baby

    Cough drops, cold meds: Whats safe to take while pregnant ...

    When you become pregnant, your immune system is likely to change. As a result of these changes, you may contract a cold or cough at some point during your pregnancy. In addition, your illness may last longer. The good news is that even though you probably feel fatigued, the symptoms of a cold or flu are not typically dangerous to your baby. However, it is important to take the necessary measures to avoid contracting a cold or cough during pregnancy and to treat it once you get one.

    • Get ample rest Take naps, sleep through the night, and sit down to relax. These are great ways to give your body much-needed downtime. Learn more about the importance of bed rest during pregnancy.
    • Drink plenty of fluids Drink water, juice, or broth to add necessary fluids back into your body.
    • Eat well Even if you cannot stomach larger meals, try eating small portions often.
    • Reduce congestion Place a humidifier in your room, keep your head elevated on your pillow while resting, or use nasal strips.
    • Alleviate your sore throat Suck on ice chips, drink warm tea, or gargle with warm salt water.

    It is best to reduce the number of over-the-counter medications you take. Many medications you normally would use to treat the symptoms of your cold are not safe to take during your pregnancy. The following is a list of medications that pose little risk to your baby during pregnancy however, it is best to consult with your doctor before taking any medications to relieve your symptoms.

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    What Helps A Sore Throat When Pregnant

    Home remedies for strep throat during pregnancy

  • Gargle with warm salt water to help your sore throat feel better.
  • Avoid cold liquids, which can aggravate a sore throat. Instead, try caffeine-free herbal teas, such as chamomile or lemon tea with cinnamon.
  • Get plenty of rest to allow your body to heal.
  • A Word About Antibiotics

    So many patients call asking for antibiotics for a cold,usually when theyve had symptoms for several days. There are a few times whenantibiotics are appropriate, for instance, strep throat or sinus infectionscaused by bacteria. But antibiotics simply dont work against viruses thatcause the common cold. Overprescribing antibiotics for viral illnesses leads toantibiotic resistance, which means the bacteria grow stronger over time andbecome tougher to beat with antibiotics.If a doctor prescribes an antibiotic for cold symptoms, its usually a short,three-day round of drugs. The patient often feels better after finishing themedication but probably would have recovered in that timeframe anyway withoutthe drug.

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    Safe Constipation Remedies During Pregnancy

    • Metamucil, Citracel, Fibercon, Benefiber
    • Stool softeners colace ,1 tablet 2-3 times a day, pericolace ,1 tablet 1-3 times a day
    • Laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia, Correctal, Fleets enema and Miralax
    • Imodium liquid or capsules for diarrhea
    • Psyllium, which is the basic ingredient in Konsyl and Metamucil
    • Colace

    Tips To Prevent Cough In Pregnancy

    Home remedies for cough & cold | safe for pregnant and breastfeeding moms

    When pregnant, your body works to sustain and nourish the little life flourishing inside you. This weakens your immune system and you are susceptible to common colds, and coughs. It is not possible to steer clear of every germ that can cause cough, yet you can try and boost your chances of not getting sick by taking the below precautions:

    • Stay away from people or children at home suffering from cough and cold.
    • Practice hygiene wash hands thoroughly with soap and often.
    • Keep your surroundings clean as bacteria thrive in dirty areas.
    • Avoid sharing stuff with those suffering from cold.
    • Ensure sufficient sleep and rest.
    • If you are frequently prone to coughs and colds, consider taking a flu jab after consulting with your obstetrician.
    • The best way to avoid coughs during pregnancy would be to help your immune system. Have a balanced diet, eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, rest, and exercise to strengthen the immune system.

    All in all, persistent cough should not be ignored during pregnancy. Follow the above home remedies, if the cough still persists, immediately consult the doctor. To sum up, stay stress free and hydrated during pregnancy to avoid unpleasant experiences such as coughs. Eat healthy and live healthy!

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    Is It Safe To Give Pholcodine To Children

    Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children. Hypersensitivity to the active substance or any of the excipients. Pholcodine should not be given to subjects in, or at risk of developing respiratory failure . Patients with chronic bronchitis, COPD, bronchiolitis or bronchiectasis due to sputum retention.

    Why Get A Flu Shot

    • Pregnant women who get the flu are at higher risk of hospitalization, and even death, than non-pregnant women.
    • Severe illness in the pregnant mother can also be dangerous to her fetus.
    • When you get your flu shot, your body starts to make antibodies that help protect you and your baby against the flu.
    • Antibodies can be passed on to your unborn baby, and help protect the baby for up to six months after he or she is born.

    See the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention flyer on why pregnant women need a flu shot.

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    How Do I Know If I Have A Cold During Pregnancy

    Symptoms of a cold during pregnancy are no different than the usual cold symptoms. These include:

    • Cough

    A cold can be easily confused with the flu because the two infections share many of the same symptoms. But unlike a cold, the flu can also cause more serious symptoms. These include:

    • Fever

    • Chills

    • Headaches

    Having a fever in early pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. If you notice a fever at any time during your pregnancy, talk to your healthcare provider to see if treatment is needed.

    Is Delsym Cough Syrup Safe During Pregnancy

    Child cold remedies don

    The primary cough remedy used during pregnancy is dextromethorphan . Many studies suggest that there is no association between dextromethorphan use and an increased risk of birth defects. However, many of the OTC products containing dextromethorphan also contain alcohol and should be avoided during pregnancy.

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    The National on MSN.com

    Effects Of Dextromethorphan On A Fetus

    While taking dextromethorphan while pregnant is relatively safe, it is very important for pregnant women to monitor what goes into their bodies during the entirety of pregnancy. Taking dextromethorphan as directed will not cause a fetus to have birth defects.

    It should be noted, however, that the overuse or misuse of dextromethorphan can negatively affect a pregnant woman and therefore, her fetus. Symptoms of misusing excessive amounts of dextromethorphan include confusion, dizziness, slurred speech, hallucinations, increased heart rate, impaired vision, seizures, and loss of motor skills. Additional long-term effects of dextromethorphan misuse include agitation, delusions, mood changes like depression and mania, problems with attention and memory consolidation, and liver damage. These long-term effects of dextromethorphan misuse can affect a fetus or newborn baby.

    You should never take more dextromethorphan than the amount indicated. This medication can be psychologically addictive when misused.

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    From Cold And Cough To Hemorrhoid And Nausea We Break Down Safe Otc Medications To Take While Pregnant

    Its the dead of winter and you cant sleep, because youre 7 months pregnant and your baby has decided to be nocturnal. You know you need sleep, because lack of good rest inhibits your immune system. This stresses you out, because your spouse has a nasty cold, and youd rather avoid it.

    Your spouse is resting peacefully in the guest room because he has a plethora of over-the-counter medications at his disposal.

    But not you. Youre pregnant, and your OTC medicine choices are extremely limited. So, you hope to stay healthy amid the stress and discomfort of pregnancy. Not to mention its cold and flu season.

    Then, you realize. Your nose is running. Your sinuses feel clogged. Youre getting sick.

    Your first instinct is to want to grab those great medications your spouse is taking. But you know you have to be careful.

    In no time, youre miserable with symptoms of the common cold. Youre desperate for relief, but you know the safety of your baby is paramount.

    Advanced Womens Healthcare is here to help with a comprehensive list of safe over-the-counter medications to take during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor for the best personalized choices for you.

    Pregnant women: Dont forget to get your flu shot at AWH Dallas!

    Skin Rashes Cuts Scrapes

    Coronavirus Coughing Medicines/simple linctus/Robitussin/pregnancy safe cough syrup

    Rashes and itchy skin can be treated with OTC hydrocortisone cream during pregnancy. But mention these symptoms to your doctor to rule out conditions like pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy . You doctor may prescribe steroidal creams for certain conditions.

    For cuts and scrapes, clean the area well with soap and water. You may then apply an OTC antibiotic ointment, like Neosporin, for added protection.

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    Vaginal Thrush During Pregnancy

    Thanks to naturally occurring hormonal changes, during pregnancy some women are more susceptible to vaginal thrush.

    ⢠Antifungal medicines in pregnancy

    There is not a great deal of information available about the safety of oral antifungal medicines to treat thrush, such as fluconazole during pregnancy, so we would advise you not to take them.

    ⢠Antifungal cream or pessaries in pregnancy

    Your doctor may prescribe you antifungal cream or pessaries, such as clotrimazole during pregnancy. But these products should only be used after discussion of the risks and benefits with your doctor. If you are prescribed a vaginal preparation, take care with vaginal applicators to avoid damaging the cervix, or avoid using them altogether.

    More Notes On Using Medication For Pregnant Women

    A pregnant woman should always consider all the effects of a medicine before taking it. Cough medicines for example alleviate the pain but may contain some ingredients which can be potentially harmful for the unborn baby. She should also avoid the stronger version of a medication, drugs containing alcohol and should always consult her doctor before resorting to any medical substances.Medicines treating coughs and colds can be divided into several groups:

    Medicines

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    Cough Medicine For Pregnant Women

    During the 9 months of pregnancy the woman should be extremely careful about her overall medical condition because every virus can cause unexpected damage to herself or her unborn baby. Still, sometimes it is just impossible to keep viruses away. If you accidentally catch cold and you are coughing so bad that medical treatment is needed. Then you start asking yourself: What cough medicine to take? Are the cough medicine for pregnant women safe? Wont they harm the baby? These are all reasonable questions which deserve special attention.

    Drink Lots Of Water And Beverages

    Booklet: What Cough Medicine Can You Take While Pregnant

    Water hydrates the body and washed out toxins. Recommended for any physical condition, this precious liquid has even greater benefits in the delicate state of pregnancy. Still, if you arent used to drinking water or if you find it too tasteless, you may turn to other beverages. Fresh fruit or vegetable juices are much more preferable than the stimulating coffee or soda drinks which contain too much sugar or artificial sweeteners.

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    Supplement Use During Pregnancy

    Discuss any supplements you take or plan to take during your pregnancy with your doctor.

    While prenatal vitamins are recommended to support levels of essential vitamins and minerals, like folate, other supplements may pose risks to your baby. They may also interact with medications youre already taking.

    Note that just because something is labeled all-natural doesnt always mean its safe. Supplements are by the FDA in the same way as prescription drugs. Approach them with caution and discuss using with your doctor before starting any.

    Treating A Cold Or Flu In Early Pregnancy

    While it is usually recommended that women avoid medications during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, there are exceptions. Tylenol to prevent fever is recommended, as fever can be detrimental to a developing embryo.

    This is not to suggest that all drugs have a potential for harm. In many cases, they don’t. But, in others, we simply don’t know. For this reason alone, you should adhere to your doctor’s advice to avoid all medications for at least the first 12 weeks.

    Instead, make every effort to help your body recover by slowing down, resting, and avoiding stresses that can affect your immune system. You can do this by:

    • Staying in bed, napping, and getting as much rest as possible
    • Drinking plenty of water, soup broth, or juice
    • Gargling with salt water to treat a sore throat or cough
    • Sucking on ice chips to alleviate a sore throat and to help with hydration
    • Using a humidifier to help relieve congestion
    • Eating small, healthy meals regularly
    • Taking your prenatal vitamins

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    Can I Take Cold Medicine While Pregnant Or Breastfeeding

    There are certain cold medicines that are considered safe to take while you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The safety of using over-the-counter cold medication while pregnant or breastfeeding depends on the specific medicines within the products, how far along you are in your pregnancy, and any other medical conditions you may have. You should only use cold medicines for the shortest time possible to help with your symptoms. Always be sure to check with your health care provider or pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter cold medicines during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

    The American Pregnancy Association recommends limiting the amount of over-the-counter cold medicines you take and trying certain home remedies to alleviate symptoms. They promote washing your hands regularly, drinking plenty of fluids, getting ample amounts of rest, eating well, and only using medications to treat the symptoms you are experiencing. As a home remedy for sinus congestion, they recommend using a humidifier, keeping your head elevated on a pillow while resting, and/or using adhesive nasal strips. For sore throat, they recommend sucking on ice chips, drinking warm herbal tea , or gargling warm salt water.1

    A Special Consideration: Whooping Cough

    Are over the counter medicines for cold & cough safe during pregnancy? – Dr. H S Chandrika

    Whooping cough is a contagious infection that is characterized by excessive, violent coughing followed by an intake of breath that makes a whooping sound. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention is now recommending that all pregnant women receive the Tdap vaccine during each of their pregnancies, preferably between the 27th-36th weeks of pregnancy.This will ensure that protection against whooping cough is passed down to your baby for the first couple of months after birth. Since your child will not receive their first whooping cough vaccine until they are 2 months old, getting this vaccine while you are pregnant will ensure your infant is protected until then. Learn more about taking vaccinations during your pregnancy.

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