Pregnant women may safely use the following over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Please follow the directions on the package for adult dosage and use. Generic substitutions are OK. If taking other medications, please consult with your doctor first . *Avoid the use of all essential oils and herbal supplements, including Elderberry syrup/supplements.
At any time during your pregnancy, it is NOT OK to consume:
DO NOT TAKE
If you have any further questions about a medication, be sure to ask your nurse or OB-GYN doctor.
Download a copy of our Medication Guide During Pregnancy for an easy reference, or bookmark this page.
| Problem | Over-the-Counter Medications | Call Your Obstetrician If You Have |
|---|---|---|
| Mild headaches/aches and pains | Tylenol (Acetaminophen) 325 mg Extra Strength Tylenol (Acetaminophen) 500 mg -DO NOT exceed 3000mg a day |
Severe and/or persistent headaches |
| Nasal congestion/cough due to a cold, sinusitis |
Afrin Nasal Spray (for 3 days only) |
No Relief |
| Heartburn | Tums Mylanta Maalox Pepcid as directed NO PEPTO-BISMOL |
No Relief
If taking Nexium or omeprazole prior, then consult MD |
| Nausea |
Ginger tablets 250-500 mg 2-3 times daily Vitamin B6 25mg tablet 3-4 times per day (no more than 200 mg/day) Unisom with active ingredient of Doxylamine 25 mg tablet, ½ tablet (12.5 mg) 2 times/day or full tablet at bedtime, may cause drowsiness |
No Relief |
| Sore throat |
Alcohol-free lozenges Tylenol |
Severe or persistent sore throat |
| Constipation |
MiraLAX |
Severe straining |
| Gas | Gas-X (simethicone) | |
| Hemorrhoids | Anusol HC cream/ointment Chilled witch hazel packs Sitz bath Tucks pads Preparation H cream/ointment |
Bleeding or severe pain |
| Insomnia | Warm bath Warm milk Vitamin B6 (50 mg) Benadryl (25 mg) Tylenol PM Unisom, 1 tablet (25 mg) |
|
| Symptoms of vaginal yeast | 3-7 days Monistat treatment | No relief call for appointment to evaluate |
| Allergies |
Flonase, Nasacort short term-Afrin (for 3 days only) |
No relief with plain antihistamines. |
| Sore muscles | Icy Hot Tylenol (Acetaminophen) 325mg Extra Strength Tylenol is OK too (Acetaminophen) 500 mg Heat pad on low (do not place directly over your abdomen). |
