Safe cold & cough medicines?
Penny cited the following
7 peer-reviewed research articles
3 professionally-backed sources
6 articles from healthcare institutions
1 general health and web source
Overview
Some over-the-counter (OTC) cold and cough medicines are considered safe to use during pregnancy, but it’s important to choose single-symptom treatments and avoid unnecessary ingredients. Always check with your OB/GYN or healthcare provider before starting any new medication, as individual circumstances and timing in pregnancy can affect safety.
Key Points: Safe Options for Cold & Cough Relief
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Use: Pain, headache, fever, sore throat.
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Safety: Well-studied and considered safe for short-term use throughout pregnancy when taken as directed. Avoid exceeding 3,000 mg in 24 hours to reduce risk of liver injury.
1ArticleTreating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications during pregnancy? ANSWER Although there are many over-the-counter brands of cold medications, most products are quite similar, with some containing up to 5 medicinal ingredients....→
PubMed Central
2ArticleWhich over-the-counter cold medications are safe during pregnancy? | Your Pregnancy Matters | UT Southwestern Medical CenterDecongestant medications reduce stuffiness and sinus pressure by constricting the blood vessels in your nose, which reduces swelling. Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine are available over the counter as Sudafed and are safe for many women to use during pregnancy.→UT Southwestern Medical Center
3ArticleWhat can I take for a cold while pregnant? | Genesis OBGYN Phoenix AZSome over-the-counter medicines are safe to take while pregnant. Ensure you follow the package instructions closely and consult with your provider. The below are recognized as safe for most pregnant people: Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Considered safe during the entire pregnancy when taken as needed.→Genesis OBGYN
4ArticleMedications During Pregnancy | Safe OTC Medicines & TreatmentsAluminum carbonate or hydroxide ... during pregnancy. Though over-the-counter, avoid consuming them without a doctor’s advice. Aside from acetaminophen, the following medicinesaresafe to take if you are feeling under the weather due to a cold or cough:...→Family Health Centers of San Diego
Dextromethorphan (DM)
- Use: Cough suppressant (found in products like Robitussin DM, Delsym).
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Safety: Studies show no increased risk of birth defects when used at recommended doses. Generally considered safe during pregnancy.
1ArticleTreating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications during pregnancy? ANSWER Although there are many over-the-counter brands of cold medications, most products are quite similar, with some containing up to 5 medicinal ingredients....→5ArticleDextromethorphan - MotherToBaby | Fact Sheets - NCBI BookshelfThe safety of dextromethorphan in pregnancy: Results of a controlled study. Chest, 119(2):466-469. [PubMed: 11171724] Heinonen OP, et al. 1977. Birth Defects and Drugs in Pregnancy. Littleton, Mass.: John Wright-PSG, page 382. Martinez-Frias ML, et al. 2001. Epidemiologic analysis of prenatal exposure to coughmedicines ...→
National Center for Biotechnology Information
6ArticleRobitussin & Pregnancy: Is It Safe? - WomanCare Centers, PLCDextromethorphan (DM): This is the active ingredient in Robitussin DM and works by suppressing the cough reflex. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers dextromethorphan safe to use during pregnancy, as studies have shown no increased risk of birth defects when ...→Womancare Centers, PLC
7ArticleThe safety of dextromethorphan in pregnancy : results of a controlled study - PubMedBackground: Dextromethorphan (DM), ... data generated from a study in chick embryos were extrapolated to suggest that pregnant women should not use this drug because of the risk of birth defects....→PubMed
8ArticleMaternal use of cough medications during early pregnancy and selected birth defects: a US multisite, case–control study | BMJ OpenObjective To examine associations between maternal use of cough medications containing dextromethorphan (DM) without guaifenesin (glyceryl guaiacolate (GG)) (‘DM alone’), GG without DM (‘GG alone’) or DM +GG and major birth defects in offspring. Design Population-based case–control study.→bmjopen.bmj.com
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Note: Choose alcohol-free formulations and avoid multi-symptom products unless directed by your provider.
5ArticleDextromethorphan - MotherToBaby | Fact Sheets - NCBI BookshelfThe safety of dextromethorphan in pregnancy: Results of a controlled study. Chest, 119(2):466-469. [PubMed: 11171724] Heinonen OP, et al. 1977. Birth Defects and Drugs in Pregnancy. Littleton, Mass.: John Wright-PSG, page 382. Martinez-Frias ML, et al. 2001. Epidemiologic analysis of prenatal exposure to coughmedicines ...→9ArticleWhich Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxWhen it comes to runny nose medications, there are several options considered safe to take during pregnancy. 3ColdMedicines to Consider If You Have a Heart Condition — Plus, Ones to Avoid→
GoodRx
Guaifenesin
- Use: Expectorant (helps loosen mucus, found in Mucinex).
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Safety: Most studies do not show an increased risk of birth defects, but some suggest caution with use in the first trimester. Some providers recommend avoiding it early in pregnancy due to limited data.
1ArticleTreating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications during pregnancy? ANSWER Although there are many over-the-counter brands of cold medications, most products are quite similar, with some containing up to 5 medicinal ingredients....→6ArticleRobitussin & Pregnancy: Is It Safe? - WomanCare Centers, PLCDextromethorphan (DM): This is the active ingredient in Robitussin DM and works by suppressing the cough reflex. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) considers dextromethorphan safe to use during pregnancy, as studies have shown no increased risk of birth defects when ...→10ArticleManagement of Cold and Flu During Pregnancy | InfantRisk CenterIn this article you will find the most commonly questioned cold and flu medications and supplements for use during pregnancy along with safety data.→
infantrisk.com
11ArticleStudy finds possible link between cough medication use and certain birth defects – University of Iowa College of Public HealthThe analysis suggested that use of cough medications containing dextromethorphan and/or guaifenesin early in pregnancy was linked to some birth defects, including certain brain and spinal, heart, intestinal, and musculoskeletal defects. Romitti says researchers are concerned that more people ...→public-health.uiowa.edu
12ArticleGuaifenesin - MotherToBaby | Fact Sheets - NCBI BookshelfMaternal use of cough medications during early pregnancy and selected birth defects: a US multisite, case-control study. BMJ Open, 11: e053604. Check JH, et al. 1982. Improvement of cervical factor with guaifenesin. Fertil Steril 37:707-8. [PubMed: 6896190] Dicpinigattis, et al.. 2003. Effects of guaifenesin on cough reflex and sensitivity. Chest Journal, 126(6): 2178-2181. [PubMed: 14665498] Dude C, et al. 2021. Assessment of the Safety ...→13ArticleEvaluation of developmental toxicity of guaifenesin using pregnant female rats - PMCGuaifenesin possesses expectorant, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsive properties. To the best of our knowledge, the promising data regarding the developmental toxicity of guaifenesin are scarce. The current study investigates the developmental ...→ - Note: Use only if needed and after discussing with your provider.
Antihistamines
- Examples: Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), diphenhydramine (Benadryl).
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Safety: Considered safe for use during pregnancy, but may cause drowsiness. Some studies have conflicting findings about first-trimester use, but overall risk appears low.
1ArticleTreating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications during pregnancy? ANSWER Although there are many over-the-counter brands of cold medications, most products are quite similar, with some containing up to 5 medicinal ingredients....→2ArticleWhich over-the-counter cold medications are safe during pregnancy? | Your Pregnancy Matters | UT Southwestern Medical CenterDecongestant medications reduce stuffiness and sinus pressure by constricting the blood vessels in your nose, which reduces swelling. Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine are available over the counter as Sudafed and are safe for many women to use during pregnancy.→3ArticleWhat can I take for a cold while pregnant? | Genesis OBGYN Phoenix AZSome over-the-counter medicines are safe to take while pregnant. Ensure you follow the package instructions closely and consult with your provider. The below are recognized as safe for most pregnant people: Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Considered safe during the entire pregnancy when taken as needed.→10ArticleManagement of Cold and Flu During Pregnancy | InfantRisk CenterIn this article you will find the most commonly questioned cold and flu medications and supplements for use during pregnancy along with safety data.→
- Note: Prefer single-ingredient products.
Nasal Decongestants
- Examples: Oxymetazoline (Afrin), xylometazoline (nasal sprays).
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Safety: Short-term use of nasal sprays is generally considered safer than oral decongestants, as less medication enters the bloodstream. Use for no more than 3 days to avoid rebound congestion.
1ArticleTreating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications during pregnancy? ANSWER Although there are many over-the-counter brands of cold medications, most products are quite similar, with some containing up to 5 medicinal ingredients....→9ArticleWhich Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxWhen it comes to runny nose medications, there are several options considered safe to take during pregnancy. 3ColdMedicines to Consider If You Have a Heart Condition — Plus, Ones to Avoid→
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Oral decongestants (pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine): Some studies suggest a possible risk of certain birth defects if used in the first trimester. Oral pseudoephedrine may be considered in the second and third trimesters if needed, but only after consulting your provider.
1ArticleTreating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications during pregnancy? ANSWER Although there are many over-the-counter brands of cold medications, most products are quite similar, with some containing up to 5 medicinal ingredients....→2ArticleWhich over-the-counter cold medications are safe during pregnancy? | Your Pregnancy Matters | UT Southwestern Medical CenterDecongestant medications reduce stuffiness and sinus pressure by constricting the blood vessels in your nose, which reduces swelling. Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine are available over the counter as Sudafed and are safe for many women to use during pregnancy.→10ArticleManagement of Cold and Flu During Pregnancy | InfantRisk CenterIn this article you will find the most commonly questioned cold and flu medications and supplements for use during pregnancy along with safety data.→13ArticleEvaluation of developmental toxicity of guaifenesin using pregnant female rats - PMCGuaifenesin possesses expectorant, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsive properties. To the best of our knowledge, the promising data regarding the developmental toxicity of guaifenesin are scarce. The current study investigates the developmental ...→14ArticleSafe cold and flu medications while pregnant | Nebraska Medicine Omaha, NEGet health information you can ... Nebraska Medicine experts. Healthy Lifestyle Belly and Pelvis Pregnancy and Birth Women's Health ... Navigating pregnancy can sometimes be challenging when healthy, but when cold and flu season hits, you may wonder what medications or remedies are safe for you and ...→
nebraskamed.com
15ArticleUse of Decongestants During Pregnancy and the Risk of Birth Defects - PMCDecongestants, particularly pseudoephedrine, are among the over-the-counter (OTC) medications most commonly used during pregnancy (1). Because they are available without prescription, they are widely perceived as safe by healthcare providers and pregnant women, yet the safety of prenatal exposure ...→
Medications and Remedies to Use with Caution or Avoid
Multi-Symptom Cold Medications
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Reason: These often contain multiple active ingredients, increasing the risk of unnecessary or potentially harmful exposures.
2ArticleWhich over-the-counter cold medications are safe during pregnancy? | Your Pregnancy Matters | UT Southwestern Medical CenterDecongestant medications reduce stuffiness and sinus pressure by constricting the blood vessels in your nose, which reduces swelling. Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine are available over the counter as Sudafed and are safe for many women to use during pregnancy.→5ArticleDextromethorphan - MotherToBaby | Fact Sheets - NCBI BookshelfThe safety of dextromethorphan in pregnancy: Results of a controlled study. Chest, 119(2):466-469. [PubMed: 11171724] Heinonen OP, et al. 1977. Birth Defects and Drugs in Pregnancy. Littleton, Mass.: John Wright-PSG, page 382. Martinez-Frias ML, et al. 2001. Epidemiologic analysis of prenatal exposure to coughmedicines ...→9ArticleWhich Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxWhen it comes to runny nose medications, there are several options considered safe to take during pregnancy. 3ColdMedicines to Consider If You Have a Heart Condition — Plus, Ones to Avoid→
NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Aspirin)
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Reason: Not recommended, especially in the third trimester, due to risks of complications for the baby.
1ArticleTreating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications during pregnancy? ANSWER Although there are many over-the-counter brands of cold medications, most products are quite similar, with some containing up to 5 medicinal ingredients....→9ArticleWhich Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxWhen it comes to runny nose medications, there are several options considered safe to take during pregnancy. 3ColdMedicines to Consider If You Have a Heart Condition — Plus, Ones to Avoid→
Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies
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Reason: Safety is not well established for many supplements and herbal products. Avoid unless approved by your provider.
14ArticleSafe cold and flu medications while pregnant | Nebraska Medicine Omaha, NEGet health information you can ... Nebraska Medicine experts. Healthy Lifestyle Belly and Pelvis Pregnancy and Birth Women's Health ... Navigating pregnancy can sometimes be challenging when healthy, but when cold and flu season hits, you may wonder what medications or remedies are safe for you and ...→16ArticleMedicines in pregnancy - NHSFind out which prescription and over-the-counter medicines, such as painkillers, are safe to take in pregnancy.→
nhs.uk
17ArticleCan You Take Cold Medicine While Pregnant? What To Do for a Cold or the Flu | Inspira HealthYou’ve probably taken ... are safe for you and your baby. Here’s what you should consider when looking for relief from cold and flu symptoms while pregnant. · If you find yourself with a case of the sniffles during pregnancy, start managing your symptoms by getting lots of rest and drinking plenty of fluids. Because some OTC cold medications can lead to complications or harm your unborn baby, you need to know which to avoid. Before reaching for your medicine cabinet, talk ...→inspirahealthnetwork.org
Cough Drops and Lozenges
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Ingredients: Some contain menthol, phenol, or benzocaine. Benzocaine is considered safe, but data on menthol and phenol are limited, so alternatives may be preferred.
10ArticleManagement of Cold and Flu During Pregnancy | InfantRisk CenterIn this article you will find the most commonly questioned cold and flu medications and supplements for use during pregnancy along with safety data.→
Non-Medication Options
- Rest, fluids, and nutrition: Support your immune system.
- Saline nasal sprays or rinses: Safe and can help relieve congestion.
- Humidifier: Moistens air to ease breathing.
- Honey in warm tea: Can soothe a cough (but avoid honey in children under 1 year old).
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Warm salt water gargle: Helps with sore throat.
2ArticleWhich over-the-counter cold medications are safe during pregnancy? | Your Pregnancy Matters | UT Southwestern Medical CenterDecongestant medications reduce stuffiness and sinus pressure by constricting the blood vessels in your nose, which reduces swelling. Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine are available over the counter as Sudafed and are safe for many women to use during pregnancy.→3ArticleWhat can I take for a cold while pregnant? | Genesis OBGYN Phoenix AZSome over-the-counter medicines are safe to take while pregnant. Ensure you follow the package instructions closely and consult with your provider. The below are recognized as safe for most pregnant people: Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Considered safe during the entire pregnancy when taken as needed.→14ArticleSafe cold and flu medications while pregnant | Nebraska Medicine Omaha, NEGet health information you can ... Nebraska Medicine experts. Healthy Lifestyle Belly and Pelvis Pregnancy and Birth Women's Health ... Navigating pregnancy can sometimes be challenging when healthy, but when cold and flu season hits, you may wonder what medications or remedies are safe for you and ...→
Summary
- Acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, and certain antihistamines (chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine) are generally considered safe for short-term use during pregnancy.
- Guaifenesin may be safe, but some providers recommend avoiding it in the first trimester.
- Nasal decongestant sprays are preferred over oral decongestants, and oral pseudoephedrine should be