Which drugs are safe to take when pregnant?

Some drugs have been well studied in pregnant women. Some are known to be safe (for example, penicillin), and some are known to be unsafe (for example, thalidomide).

However, for many drugs, we do not know for sure if they are safe or unsafe. So, if you are planning a pregnancy, or if you are pregnant, you should minimise your use of medication. This includes drugs that you can buy. Also, just because a drug says it is herbal or natural, it does not necessarily mean that it is harmless or safe.

Some commonly used drugs that you can buy

• Paracetamol at normal dose is safe and useful for headaches, backache, and other aches and pains that may occur during pregnancy.
• Anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen. You should not normally take these during pregnancy. Regular use during pregnancy may affect the large blood vessels of the developing baby.
• Laxatives. Constipation is common in pregnancy and you may need a laxative. At first it is best to try increasing the fibre in your diet and increasing the amount of non-alcoholic fluids that you drink. If this fails then fibre supplements such as bran, ispaghula and sterculia are safe. If you need something stronger, then it is best to discuss this with a doctor. Some laxatives such as docusate and lactulose may be prescribed safely for a short time.
• Antihistamines. The safest one to use in pregnancy is chlorphenamine. This is because it is the oldest, and so has a long-established safety record. However, it tends to make some people drowsy. If you require an alternative then it is best to see a doctor for advice.
• Decongestants such as pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine and xylometazoline are best avoided in the early stages of pregnancy. However, they are unlikely to be harmful if used just now and then.

Drugs that you are prescribed

Always tell a doctor or dentist who prescribes your medication that you are pregnant, or intend to become pregnant.

If you already take regular medication, (for example, for epilepsy or diabetes), it is important that you discuss this with a doctor before becoming pregnant. If you have an unplanned pregnancy, discuss with your doctor as early as possible any medication that you take. In some cases, the risk of taking the drug has to be balanced against the risk of not taking the drug, and your condition not being treated.

Further information

For information about drugs see www.patient.co.uk/dils.asp