List of safe cold and cough medicines
Penny cited the following
4 peer-reviewed research articles
4 professionally-backed sources
7 articles from healthcare institutions
1 general health and web source
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.
1ArticleTreating 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....→
PubMed Central
2ArticleWhat 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
3ArticleWhich 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.→GoodRx
4ArticleMedications 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:...→Family Health Centers of San Diego
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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.
1ArticleTreating 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....→3ArticleWhich 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.→5ArticleRobitussin & 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
6ArticleDextromethorphan - 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...→National Center for Biotechnology Information
7ArticleStudy 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
8ArticleDrugs 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, ...→American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP)
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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.
3ArticleWhich 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.→7ArticleStudy 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.
1ArticleTreating 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....→3ArticleWhich 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.→5ArticleRobitussin & 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 ...→7ArticleStudy 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 ...→8ArticleDrugs 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, ...→9ArticleGuaifenesin - 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.→
Antihistamines
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Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton):
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Considered safe for use during pregnancy.
1ArticleTreating 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....→2ArticleWhat 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.→3ArticleWhich 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.→8ArticleDrugs 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, ...→10ArticleWhich 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 ...→
UT Southwestern Medical Center
11ArticleCoughs 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…→Niagara Falls General Hospital
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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.
1ArticleTreating 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....→2ArticleWhat 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.→3ArticleWhich 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.→8ArticleDrugs 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, ...→10ArticleWhich 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 ...→11ArticleCoughs 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.
12ArticleManagement 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.→
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.
1ArticleTreating 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....→3ArticleWhich 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.→
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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.
11ArticleCoughs 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…→12ArticleManagement 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.→
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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.
3ArticleWhich 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.→10ArticleWhich 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 ...→13ArticleCold and flu medications in pregnancy | VCU HealthA guide to over-the-counter medications duringpregnancy.→
VCU Health
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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.
1ArticleTreating 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....→3ArticleWhich 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.→10ArticleWhich 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 ...→12ArticleManagement 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.→14ArticleUse 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 ...→15ArticleWhat 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.→
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
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Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs: Should generally be avoided, especially in the third trimester.
1ArticleTreating 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....→3ArticleWhich 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.→
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.
3ArticleWhich 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.→8ArticleDrugs 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, ...→11ArticleCoughs 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…→16ArticleSafe 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
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.
1
Article
Treating the common cold during pregnancy - PMC
I 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....
2
Article
What can I take for a cold while pregnant? | Genesis OBGYN Phoenix AZ
Some 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.
3
Article
Which Cold Medications Are Safe During Pregnancy? - GoodRx
Dextromethorphan (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.
4
Article
Medications During Pregnancy | Safe OTC Medicines & Treatments
Aluminum 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:...
5
Article
Robitussin & Pregnancy: Is It Safe? - WomanCare Centers, PLC
Dextromethorphan (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 ...
8
Article
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, ...
10
Article
Which over-the-counter cold medications are safe during pregnancy? | Your Pregnancy Matters | UT Southwestern Medical Center
Chlorpheniramine, 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 ...
11
Article
Coughs and Colds in Pregnancy - North York General Hospital | North York General Hospital
See 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…
12
Article
Management of Cold and Flu During Pregnancy | InfantRisk Center
In this article you will find the most commonly questioned cold and flu medications and supplements for use duringpregnancy along with safety data.
13
Article
Cold and flu medications in pregnancy | VCU Health
A guide to over-the-counter medications duringpregnancy.