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 Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Medication

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Medication Chart

Medication Safety

Dana Jacoby, MD, FACOGReviewed by Dana B. Jacoby, MD, FACOG
Obstetrician and Gynecologist
Tinton Falls, NJ

Ailments don't stop when you're pregnant or breastfeeding. In fact, you may get more of them. But, your treatment options become more limited and may seem more confusing.

If you are pregnant (or trying to get pregnant) or are nursing, you should follow the basic guidelines for using medications safely, plus some additional precautions. And always talk with your health care provider before taking any medications while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Here are some general guidelines from HealthyWomen and the medical advisory board at HealthyMama:

WHAT MEDICATIONS ARE SAFE WHEN YOU'RE PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING?
What's Bothering You?What IS RecommendedWhat is NOT RecommendedAsk Your Health Care Provider
Aches and Pains Acetaminophen Aspirin
Ibuprofen
Naproxen sodium
Sleeplessness With Aches and Pains Diphenhydramine hcl Aspirin
Ibuprofen
Naproxen sodium
Melatonin
Diphenhydramine/ ibuprofen (Advil PM, Motrin PM)
Alprazolam (Xanax)
Headache Acetaminophen Aspirin
Ibuprofen
Naproxen sodium
Breast Tenderness Acetaminophen Aspirin
Ibuprofen
Naproxen sodium
Fever Acetaminophen Aspirin
Ibuprofen
Naproxen sodium
Colds (fever, cough, congestion) Ibuprofen
Alcohol
Products containing antihistamines and acetaminophen (such as Tylenol Cold)
Constipation Docusate sodium Senna (Peri-Colace); avoid during pregnancy and discuss with health care provider if breastfeeding Laxatives, under the supervision of your health care provider to avoid severe uterine contractions
Bisacodyl (Dulcolax); only use under health care provider's supervision
Heartburn and Indigestion Calcium carbonate Some medications that are not generally recommended may be permitted with your health care provider's supervision
Nausea Ginger
Hydration
Protein
Motion sickness band
B6 vitamins
Lack of Energy B6 vitamins
Protein
Too much caffeine (moderate consumption of less than 200 mg per day is generally considered safe)
Too much sugar
Hemorrhoids Hemorrhoid wipes or creams
Eat a high-fiber diet and drink plenty of fluids to help avoid constipation
Gingivitis Floss teeth
Mouthwash
Stuffy Nose Nasal spray
Guaifenesin
Dextromethorphan
Phenylephrine Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed); this can raise heart rate, so medical supervision is needed
Gas Simethicone
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