Many patients have questions regarding medication during pregnancy. It is best to avoid taking any medications. This is particularly important in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy; however, if your condition warrants treatment, the following guidelines should be followed.
- Nasal congestion or cold – Avoid decongestants and nasal sprays in the first 12 weeks, unless discussed with your physician or the office Triage Nurse. After 12 weeks, you may take Sudafed or Actified for 2-3 days until your symptoms subside.
- Cough – Plain Robitussin, 1 teaspoon every 4-5 hours. May use cold air humidifier without medication added.
- Headache – Tylenol caplets or tablets, 1 or 2 every 4 hours.
- Constipation – Metamucil, Surfak, or Colace per package directions.
- Nausea – Vitamin B-6, 50 mg. 3 times a day. May be taken in the first trimester.
- Diarrhea – Kaopectate or Imodium, per package directions.
- Heartburn – Maalox or Mylanta per package directions. For more severe reflux, Pepcid AC
- Hemmorrhoids – Anusol local application or Preparation H, per package instructions.
- Dental Care – You may take Novocain, but no gaseous analgesia. Dental x-rays, with the abdomen shielded, are permitted
