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List of safe cold and cough medicines
Overview
Many over-the-counter (OTC) cold and cough medicines contain ingredients that are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, but it’s important to choose single-symptom medications and avoid unnecessary ingredients. Below is a summary of the most commonly used and studied options.
Safe Cold and Cough Medicines During Pregnancy
Pain and Fever Relief
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol):
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Widely considered safe throughout pregnancy for pain or fever when used as directed.
Treating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications duringpregnancy? 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....What 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.Read full articleSource: Genesis OBGYNWhich Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxDextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe for pregnancy. See a comprehensive list of cold medications you can take (and ones you should avoid) while pregnant.Read full articleSource: GoodRxMedications During Pregnancy | Safe OTC Medicines & TreatmentsAluminum carbonate or hydroxide ... duringpregnancy. 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:...
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Widely considered safe throughout pregnancy for pain or fever when used as directed.
Cough Suppressants and Expectorants
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Dextromethorphan (DM):
- Commonly found in cough medicines (e.g., Robitussin DM, Delsym).
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Studies have not shown an increased risk of birth defects when used as recommended.
Treating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications duringpregnancy? 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....Robitussin & 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 ...Which Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxDextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe for pregnancy. See a comprehensive list of cold medications you can take (and ones you should avoid) while pregnant.Read full articleSource: GoodRxDextromethorphan - MotherToBaby | Fact Sheets - NCBI BookshelfThis sheet is about exposure to dextromethorphan in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. This information is based on available published literature. It should not take the place of medical care and advice from your healthcare provider. ... Dextromethorphan is an over-the-counter medication that has been used to treat cough (coughsuppressant...Read full articleSource: ncbi.nlm.nih.govStudy 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 ...Drugs in Pregnancy: Do the Benefits Outweigh the Risks?The cough, cold, and allergy products ... and expectorants. Current updates to the immunization schedule include administering tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine with each pregnancy. Influenza vaccination should also be recommended for all pregnant women and can be given in any trimester. The decision to treat pregnancy-associated conditions should be based on a number of factors, including safety, symptom severity, ...
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Still, some recent research suggests a possible link to certain birth defects when used in early pregnancy, but overall findings remain reassuring. More research is needed.
Which Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxDextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe for pregnancy. See a comprehensive list of cold medications you can take (and ones you should avoid) while pregnant.Read full articleSource: GoodRxStudy 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 ...
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Guaifenesin:
- An expectorant found in products like Mucinex.
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Generally considered safe, but some sources recommend avoiding it in the first trimester due to limited data.
Treating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications duringpregnancy? 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....Robitussin & 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 ...Which Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxDextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe for pregnancy. See a comprehensive list of cold medications you can take (and ones you should avoid) while pregnant.Read full articleSource: GoodRxStudy 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 ...Drugs in Pregnancy: Do the Benefits Outweigh the Risks?The cough, cold, and allergy products ... and expectorants. Current updates to the immunization schedule include administering tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine with each pregnancy. Influenza vaccination should also be recommended for all pregnant women and can be given in any trimester. The decision to treat pregnancy-associated conditions should be based on a number of factors, including safety, symptom severity, ...Guaifenesin - MotherToBaby | Fact Sheets - NCBI BookshelfThis sheet is about exposure to guaifenesin in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. This information is based on available published research. It should not take the place of medical care and advice from your healthcare provider.Read full articleSource: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Antihistamines
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Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton):
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Considered safe for use during pregnancy.
Treating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications duringpregnancy? 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....Which over-the-counter cold medications are safe during pregnancy? | Your Pregnancy Matters | UT Southwestern Medical CenterChlorpheniramine, such as Triaminic Allergy, and diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl, are safe to take during pregnancy. However, both can cause drowsiness, so these are best taken at bedtime. The maximum dosage for chlorpheniramine is 32 mg in 24 hours. When compared to placebos, antihistamines ...What 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.Read full articleSource: Genesis OBGYNWhich Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxDextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe for pregnancy. See a comprehensive list of cold medications you can take (and ones you should avoid) while pregnant.Read full articleSource: GoodRxDrugs in Pregnancy: Do the Benefits Outweigh the Risks?The cough, cold, and allergy products ... and expectorants. Current updates to the immunization schedule include administering tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine with each pregnancy. Influenza vaccination should also be recommended for all pregnant women and can be given in any trimester. The decision to treat pregnancy-associated conditions should be based on a number of factors, including safety, symptom severity, ...Coughs and Colds in Pregnancy - North York General Hospital | North York General HospitalSee the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention flyer on why pregnant women need a flu shot. Washing your hands with soap and water (or using an alcohol hand rub) is the most important method of…
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Considered safe for use during pregnancy.
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Diphenhydramine (Benadryl):
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Considered safe for use during pregnancy.
Treating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications duringpregnancy? 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....Which over-the-counter cold medications are safe during pregnancy? | Your Pregnancy Matters | UT Southwestern Medical CenterChlorpheniramine, such as Triaminic Allergy, and diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl, are safe to take during pregnancy. However, both can cause drowsiness, so these are best taken at bedtime. The maximum dosage for chlorpheniramine is 32 mg in 24 hours. When compared to placebos, antihistamines ...What 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.Read full articleSource: Genesis OBGYNWhich Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxDextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe for pregnancy. See a comprehensive list of cold medications you can take (and ones you should avoid) while pregnant.Read full articleSource: GoodRxDrugs in Pregnancy: Do the Benefits Outweigh the Risks?The cough, cold, and allergy products ... and expectorants. Current updates to the immunization schedule include administering tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine with each pregnancy. Influenza vaccination should also be recommended for all pregnant women and can be given in any trimester. The decision to treat pregnancy-associated conditions should be based on a number of factors, including safety, symptom severity, ...Coughs and Colds in Pregnancy - North York General Hospital | North York General HospitalSee the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention flyer on why pregnant women need a flu shot. Washing your hands with soap and water (or using an alcohol hand rub) is the most important method of…
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Considered safe for use during pregnancy.
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Doxylamine:
- Sometimes found in cold medicines and also used for nausea in pregnancy.
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Substantial experience suggests low risk.
Management 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 duringpregnancy along with safety data.Read full articleSource: infantrisk.com
Decongestants
- Nasal Sprays (Oxymetazoline, Xylometazoline):
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Inhaled decongestants are considered relatively safe for short-term use (up to 3 days) but should not be overused due to risk of rebound congestion.
Treating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications duringpregnancy? 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....Which Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxDextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe for pregnancy. See a comprehensive list of cold medications you can take (and ones you should avoid) while pregnant.Read full articleSource: GoodRx
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Inhaled decongestants are considered relatively safe for short-term use (up to 3 days) but should not be overused due to risk of rebound congestion.
Cough Drops and Lozenges
- Benzocaine and Most Cough Drops (e.g., Halls):
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Generally considered safe.
Coughs and Colds in Pregnancy - North York General Hospital | North York General HospitalSee the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention flyer on why pregnant women need a flu shot. Washing your hands with soap and water (or using an alcohol hand rub) is the most important method of…Management 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 duringpregnancy along with safety data.Read full articleSource: infantrisk.com
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Generally considered safe.
Medicines to Use With Caution or Avoid
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Multi-symptom combination products: These often contain multiple active ingredients, increasing the risk of unnecessary exposure. It’s recommended to treat only the symptoms you have with single-ingredient products.
Which over-the-counter cold medications are safe during pregnancy? | Your Pregnancy Matters | UT Southwestern Medical CenterChlorpheniramine, such as Triaminic Allergy, and diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl, are safe to take during pregnancy. However, both can cause drowsiness, so these are best taken at bedtime. The maximum dosage for chlorpheniramine is 32 mg in 24 hours. When compared to placebos, antihistamines ...Cold and flu medications in pregnancy | VCU HealthA guide to over-the-counter medications duringpregnancy.Read full articleSource: VCU HealthWhich Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxDextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe for pregnancy. See a comprehensive list of cold medications you can take (and ones you should avoid) while pregnant.Read full articleSource: GoodRx
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Pseudoephedrine and Phenylephrine (oral decongestants): Some studies suggest a small risk of certain birth defects, especially with first-trimester use. Oral phenylephrine is also not considered effective.
Treating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications duringpregnancy? 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....Management 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 duringpregnancy along with safety data.Read full articleSource: infantrisk.comWhich Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxDextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe for pregnancy. See a comprehensive list of cold medications you can take (and ones you should avoid) while pregnant.Read full articleSource: GoodRxWhich over-the-counter cold medications are safe during pregnancy? | Your Pregnancy Matters | UT Southwestern Medical CenterChlorpheniramine, such as Triaminic Allergy, and diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl, are safe to take during pregnancy. However, both can cause drowsiness, so these are best taken at bedtime. The maximum dosage for chlorpheniramine is 32 mg in 24 hours. When compared to placebos, antihistamines ...Use 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 ...What medicine can I take for allergies while I'm pregnant? | ACOGStudies show that several over-the-counter allergy medications are safe to use during pregnancy.
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Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs: Should generally be avoided, especially in the third trimester.
Treating the common cold during pregnancy - PMCI am hesitant to recommend ... is known about the safety of cold medications duringpregnancy? 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....Which Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxDextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe for pregnancy. See a comprehensive list of cold medications you can take (and ones you should avoid) while pregnant.Read full articleSource: GoodRx
Additional Tips
- Always read medication labels and avoid products containing alcohol.
- Discuss any medication use with your OB/GYN or healthcare provider, especially if you have other health conditions or are in the first trimester.
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Non-drug remedies (humidifiers, saline nasal sprays, honey for cough, rest, and hydration) are also recommended.
Coughs and Colds in Pregnancy - North York General Hospital | North York General HospitalSee the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention flyer on why pregnant women need a flu shot. Washing your hands with soap and water (or using an alcohol hand rub) is the most important method of…Safe 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 ...Read full articleSource: nebraskamed.comWhich Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRxDextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe for pregnancy. See a comprehensive list of cold medications you can take (and ones you should avoid) while pregnant.Read full articleSource: GoodRxDrugs in Pregnancy: Do the Benefits Outweigh the Risks?The cough, cold, and allergy products ... and expectorants. Current updates to the immunization schedule include administering tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine with each pregnancy. Influenza vaccination should also be recommended for all pregnant women and can be given in any trimester. The decision to treat pregnancy-associated conditions should be based on a number of factors, including safety, symptom severity, ...
Summary
Most pregnant individuals can safely use acetaminophen for pain or fever, dextromethorphan for cough, guaifenesin (with some caution in the first trimester), and certain antihistamines like chlorpheniramine and diphenhydramine. Nasal sprays for congestion are generally safe for short-term use. It’s best to avoid multi-symptom products and oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, especially in the first trimester. Always consult your OB/GYN or healthcare provider, who can work with you on your personal course of care.Peer-Reviewed Research
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