Before you take any cold medications during pregnancy, you'll want to consult your health care provider. While there are plenty of medications considered probably safe by the FDA, your health care provider will help you chose which medications best suit your situation. It's important to also remember that most health care providers discourage the use of any medications during your first trimester (up until your 12th week) and again after you reach 38 weeks gestation.
Cough Syrup
Of the medications that are considered probably safe by the FDA, the University of Michigan Health Care System recommends the following cough medicines: Robitussin and Robitussin DM cough syrups and Vicks plain cough syrup. Be sure to discuss any medications--over-the-counter, herbal or otherwise--with your health care provider before taking them.
Pain Relief
A cold can often come with pain that can interfere with your comfort, productivity and well being. The University of Michigan Health System recommends the use of Tylenol during pregnancy. Not all Tylenol products are considered safe, some of the preparations combine Tylenol with other drugs that make them unsafe during pregnancy. Be sure to ask your health care provider which combinations are OK for you to take. Do not take aspirin during your pregnancy as it can effect blood clotting and cause problems during delivery.
Decongestants, Expectorants and Suppressants
Sudafed is widely accepted as probably safe to use as a nasal decongestant. Using a cough expectorant during the day to help break up mucus that is accumulating in the respiratory tract so that you can cough it up and help your body in fighting the infection is also considered safe, as is using a cough suppressant at night to help you sleep and get the rest your growing baby and you need. Ask your doctor which suppressants and expectorants are right for you.
