One of the worst things about pregnancy is getting sick. You can’t just go to the store and pick up any over the counter medication you want, but there are some medications that are safe for you to take. This list of symptoms and medications you can take while pregnant will help when that time comes.
~I am not a medical professional and the info provided here is info that was provided to me by my OB/GYN. If you have questions or a serious illness, please visit your doctor.~
I’ve gotten sick at least once with every pregnancy, including right now with my third. And while I’ve been through it before, I still find myself looking online and asking my doctor what is safe to take.
Luckily, this time around my doctor gave me a list of medications that are safe to take while pregnant. This was the first time in three pregnancies that I’ve received a list like this and it has been a lifesaver. It has saved me from finding incorrect information online and also saved me additional visits to my doctor.
I know I’m not alone, so I want to share with you this list of acceptable medications to take while pregnant.
No matter what, don’t ever take Aspirin, Advil or Motrin while pregnant.
Nausea/Vomiting
- Pepto Bismol
- Emetrol
Remember that nausea and vomiting are typical in pregnancy, but anytime you experience excessive nausea/vomiting, call your doctor. If you’re unable to keep liquid down for more than one day, are weak or dizzy, you need to make a visit to your doctor.
Cold/Flu
- Aches/Pains – Tylenol
- Congestion – Sudafed
- Coughing – Robitusin
- Sore Throat – Chloraseptic/Cepacol Lozenges; Listerine gargle
One of my favorite home remedies for a sore throat is hot/warm honey chamomile tea. Add a teaspoon (or more) of honey to the steeped tea and you’re good to go. Adding a little lemon helps too. This has been my go-to for a sore throat for all three pregnancies.
If you have a fever over 101 degrees, are coughing up a lot of phlegm, or have no improvement in 2-3 days, you need to make a visit to your doctor.
Heartburn/Gas
- Mylanta
- Maalox
- Tums
- Rolaids
If you experience severe abdominal pain, you need to make a visit to your doctor.
Allergies
- Benadryl
- Zyrtec
- Allegra
- Claritin
Constipation
- Senakot
- Psyllium
- Konsyl Easy Mix – stool softener and natural laxative
- Milk of Magnesia/Colace – Take twice a day if stool is hard. It takes one week to be effective.
- Include salads/leafy greens in your diet and drink plenty of water.
Diarrhea
- Kaopectale
- Pepto Bismol
- BRAT Diet – bananas, rice, applesauce, tea or toast
Headaches
- Tylenol (regular or extra strength), two tabs every 4 hours
Hemorrhoids
- Konsyl Easy Mix
- Preparation H or Anusol
- Tucks
Leg Cramps
- Oscal 500 mg or similar over the counter calcium, twice a day
- Massage area and apply light heat.
Dental
- It is okay to see your dentist:
- Get x-rays with abdominal shield
- Receive novacaine
- Take antibiotics and/or pain meds
- Gum bleeding is common. See your dentist if it persists.
