Medicines to Avoid When Pregnant
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MEDICATION DURING PREGNANCY
During pregnancy, the intake of medications can have severe consequences on the mother and the baby’s health. Indeed, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends not taking drugs during pregnancy. However, a pregnant woman may need one of these medications for her health. In this case, keeping proper medical advice is fundamental to avoid risks. Some medications can cross the placenta since they follow the same route that oxygen and nutrients necessary for the growth and development of the fetus follow. However, some drugs cannot cross the placenta but can harm the fetus when they affect the uterus or the placenta itself.
The use of antidepressants during pregnancy, especially some selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can be controversial. However, they may be necessary in cases of severe depression as the benefits of treating depression often outweigh the risks. The newborn of a mother taking antidepressants may have withdrawal symptoms (such as irritability and agitation) after delivery. Many professionals taper and stop prescribing these medications gradually before delivery. However, health practitioners can keep this treatment for major depression to avoid more severe risks.
Antihypertensives
Some antihypertensives, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and thiazide diuretics, are not prescribed during pregnancy. Hence, when a picture of hypertension is present, patients should take these drugs under medical prescription. Otherwise, they can cause severe consequences on the fetus and kidney damage. Also, alternatives to treat hypertension during pregnancy should be analyzed by a health care professional.
ANALGESICS AND ANTI-FLU MEDICATION
Phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine can be effective decongestants. However, these drugs are not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy. Similarly, cough and cold medications containing guaifenesin are contraindicated during this period.
Pain medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can increase the risk of conditions, especially in sensitive patients.
DRUGS
Many drugs can alter the placenta function by vasoconstriction or decreased blood flow, reducing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. On the other hand, they can act directly on the fetus, causing injury, abnormal development, or death.
CALL YOUR TRUSTED PROFESSIONALS
Instead, acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) for fever and pain is a safer medication during pregnancy.
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