Prescription Medications During Pregnancy
lesser risk.
Being pregnant puts the mother on a higher risk on whatever she does from her food, fluid and medication in takes to simple and complex activities. Since not only her body can be affected, but also that of the developing baby in her womb, safety measures should always be observed especially in taking prescription medications during pregnancy. To avoid complications, only take prescribed drugs intended for pregnant women. Consult your doctor for medications that are suitable for you upon confirming your condition. Discuss the risks that have to be weighed should there be drugs that you have to intake, or alternatives that you can intake that have
Prenatal vitamins and thyroid medications In general, the safest drugs for pregnant women are prenatal vitamins and thyroid medications. Prenatal vitamins should contain a minimum of 400-800 micrograms (µg) of folic acid. Folic acid facilitates minimizing the chance for the baby to have a neural tube defect, like spina bifida—a condition wherein the spine of brain was formed improperly. Be wary though because too much vitamin intakes can lead to severe birth defects. Only take the prescribed dosage by your doctor. Thyroid medication is recommended for a pregnant woman who either has hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Levothyroxine is used in the treatment. It is a synthetic form of thyroid hormone that is perfectly safe for the baby’s development. Through this treatment, pregnant women can have lower risk of experiencing miscarriage, preeclampsia and preterm delivery. Also, this prevents women to bear babies that have lower IQs due to insufficient thyroid hormone. • • • • •
The following are other safe medications for certain Conditions of pregnant women that have no harmful effects if taken according to the package instructions: Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Claritin for allergy Tylenol (acetaminophen), gargling warm water with salt and Saline nasal drops or spray for treating cold and flu Colace and Metamucil for constipation Bacitracin, J&J first aid cream, Polysporin and Neosporin as first aid ointments
Benadryl cream, Caladryl lotion or cream, Hydrocortisone cream or ointment and oatmeal bath for treating rashes
Never risk taking unprescribed medications or over the counter drugs that aren’t advised for pregnant women. Even herbal medicines aren’t proven to be safe for pregnant women. There are no sufficient studies that show whether herbal medicines are beneficial for pregnant. Check if these herbal medicines are FDA approved and are recommended for pregnant. Always ensure that the pharmacist or health care provider knows your condition upon consultation. Better be more cautious now that a baby depends for safety and survival in you. Source: Pharmacy in Brooklyn