Medication During Pregnancy: What’s Safe?

Taking Medication When You’re Expecting

Pregnancy is a time filled with excitement – and understandably a little anxiety too. Whether she is a traditional mom or a gestational surrogate she will have a strong natural inclination to protect the baby she is carrying. It’s normal to question if previous activities are safe now: can I still go running while pregnant? Travel by plane? Can pregnant women take cough drops?

One of the most common concerns: are over-the-counter drugs safe during pregnancy? The answer is sometimes – it depends on the drug and trimester. Many women choose to try non-medicated remedies first, like saline drops, humidifiers, or good old-fashioned fluids and rest. If those don’t provide relief, there is still hope; many over the counter and even prescription medications get the green light from doctors.

Safe Medications To Take During Pregnancy

A general list of safe meds during pregnancy include:

• Antacids for heartburn (Maalox, Rolaids, Tums)
• Simethicone for gas (Gas-X, Mylanta)
• Expectorants and Dextromethorphan for cough or cold (Mucinex, Robitussin, Vicks VapoRub, cough drops)
• Acetaminophen for pain relief and fever (Anacin Aspirin-Free, Tylenol)

Pregnancy Medication Resources

So yes, while taking cold medicine during pregnancy is generally considered safe, it must first receive the all-clear. It’s imperative that a surrogate confirm which prescription drugs are safe during pregnancy with her healthcare provider as well. A medical professional can alleviate concerns by recommending which over-the-counter and prescription drugs show little to no risk to the developing fetus.

You can learn more about safe medication during pregnancy at the Food and Drug Administration, as well as surrogacy medication on our blog.