According to an article in American Family Physician, 80 percent of pregnant women take over-the-counter medications during pregnancy. Although many of these medications have few, if any, side effects in a normal individual, some of them can adversely affect the developing fetus in the first trimester of pregnancy. The first trimester of pregnancy is when many of the major organ systems are forming and developing in the new fetus. Many medications that are otherwise safe can adversely affect this delicate process.
Antacids
Heartburn and gas are common symptoms of pregnancy due to the developing fetus which will compress or obstruct the gastrointestinal tract, including the organs in the abdominal cavity and stomach. Some common over-the-counter drugs that can give relief from these symptoms are antacids for heartburn, including Maalox, Mylanta, Rolaids and Tums.
Cough Suppressant
Pregnancy can be very stressful for a woman, especially if it is the first pregnancy. Stress can increase the susceptibility to getting illnesses like colds and flu because of the depressed immune system. Robitussin Cough medication is an over-the-counter cough suppressant that is safe to use during pregnancy. According to the University of Michigan Health System website, some over-the-counter medications that are safe to use during pregnancy for coughs and colds are medications containing dextromethorphan.
Bulk Fiber
The developing fetus in the womb gradually enlarges, causing many secondary problems like constipation (due to increased pressure and compression of the intestines by the growing fetus) and hemorrhoids (due to increased pressure to the blood vessels supplying the anal sphincter muscle in the rectal areas). Increasing fiber intake with products like psyllium (Konsyl-D, Metamucil, Modane Bulk, Perdiem) will help prevent constipation and other digestive issues. Laxatives should be used with caution along with stool softeners (Colace, Dulcolax, Maltsupex, milk of magnesia); it is recommended to consult your physician before taking any of these products if you are pregnant.
Anti-hemorrhoidals
Some safe over-the-counter drugs for relief from hemorrhoids during pregnancy include products like Anusol, Preparation H and Tucks.
Acetaminophen
For fevers, acetaminophen-containing products, such as Tylenol, are safe to use. Caution should be taken to keep the dosage within the recommended levels to avoid any potential adverse side effects on the mother and developing fetus.
