What Medications Can I Take

We generally recommend you avoid taking any medications you have not been prescribed during your first trimester. On occasion it may be medically necessary to do so. Fortunately, there are many medications that are safe during pregnancy.

At SSM Health, we encourage you to speak with your doctor before taking any drugs and only use medications as directed. If you are unsure about a particular medication, speak with your doctor.

Over-the-Counter Medications Safe to Take During Pregnancy

Pain Relief

Tylenol or acetaminophen (plain/extra strength) for mild discomfort

Caution: do not take aspirin (Anacin, Bayer) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).

Medicine for Digestive Upsets

Antacids (Tums, Rolaids, Mylanta, Maalox, Pepcid, Prevacid)
Simethicone (Gas-X, Mylicon for gas pain, Gaviscon)
Immodium or BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast or tea) for diarrhea

Medicine for Coughs/Colds

Guaifenesin (Robitussin®)
Guaifenesin plus dextromethorphan (Robitussin-DM®)
Cough drops
Vicks VapoRub®
Acetaminophen

Allergy Relief

Tylenol or acetaminophen (plain/extra strength) is OK
Chlorpheniramine antihistamine alone (chlor-Trimetron)
Benadryl tablets
Saline nasal spray
Neti-pot or sinus rinse
Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra

Options for Constipation

Fiber can be used regularly (Metamucil®, MiraLax®, Citrucel®, BeneFiber®)
Laxatives can be used occasionally (Colace®, Dulcolax®)
Tucks for hemorrhoids
Mix of Prune juice, OJ, 7-UP® – equal parts

Other Things You May Have Worried About That Also Appear to Be Safe

Nutrasweet® (1–2 servings per day)
One or two cups of coffee per day
Nix for head lice
Perms
Sunscreen
Hair coloring products
Pedicures
Mosquito repellent containing DEET

Call your doctor if you have additional questions or concerns, are experiencing any new pains, or symptoms of a cold or flu.

Our maternity team is here to support you every step of the way. Find a provider near you and schedule an appointment today.