Medications taken during pregnancy may cross the placenta and affect the baby. Some medications are known or suspected to be harmful to a growing fetus. The FDA has classified drugs according to their safety or potential risk in pregnancy. Drugs classified as category A or B are considered safe. Drugs classified as category C may be used when the benefits of the drug outweigh the risk to the baby. Drugs classified as category D or X generally should not be used in pregnancy, unless the risk of not using them is greater than the risk of using them.
Prescription Drugs
Always tell any doctor that you see if you are trying to conceive or pregnant. This will allow them to prescribe the safest drug for you and your baby. Certain prescription drugs are considered very dangerous for pregnant women.
The March of Dimes states that Accutane, an acne remedy, is one of these drugs. It can cause brain development disorders, eye and ear disorders, cleft palate or heart defects in the unborn baby.
Soriatane, a drug used to treat psoriasis, also can cause birth defects if taken within three years of conception. If you take or have taken any psoriasis medications, ask your doctor how long you must wait before becoming pregnant.
Thalidomide, a drug used for leprosy, myeloma, and AIDS, can cause severe deformities of the baby's hands, feet, arms and legs.
ACE inhibitors, used for high blood pressure, are harmful to pregnant women. According to the March of Dimes, they may cause heart, nervous system and kidney disorders in an unborn baby.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Some over-the-counter medications are safe to take during pregnancy, but others are not. Check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medications during pregnancy.
Aspirin is classified as a category D drug during the entire pregnancy, according to the American Family Physician.
Ibuprofen is a category D drug for women in their last trimester, as it can cause hemorrhaging and pulmonary hypertension in the baby.
Pepto-Bismol, a popular medication for stomach upset, is also a category D drug during the last trimester, and a category C drug in the earlier stages of pregnancy.
Herbal Remedies
According to the American Herbal Product Association, there are many herbal supplements that should not be taken during pregnancy. The March of Dimes suggests not taking any herbs or supplements during pregnancy without the express recommendation of your physician.
Some herbs that can cause problems during pregnancy, including early contractions, include arnica, horsetail, rosemary, fenugreek, gentian, aloe, dong quai, licorice, parsley and pennyroyal. Black cohosh and blue cohosh are only recommended during the last two weeks of pregnancy. Always ask a physician, herbalist, nutritionist or homeopathic doctor before taking any herbs if you are pregnant.
