Q: Is it safe to take herbals and other dietary supplements during pregnancy?

A: Herbals, and other dietary supplements should be avoided as they are not regulated by the FDA and could have potentially harmful side effects. It is important that you talk with your doctor before taking any medications.

Q: Is it safe to take medications, herbals or dietary supplements while breastfeeding?

A: Most medications enter breast milk in small amounts. However, we need more information about the actual effects of most medications on nursing babies to be certain they are safe to use while breastfeeding.

Q: What over-the-counter medications are safe for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding?

A: You may try the following medications for the following conditions. If these are ineffective, call your doctor for additional advice or an appointment. Please call if your temperature persists above 100.6 degrees after using over-the-counter medications and drinking fluids.

ALLERGIES (seasonal):
Claritin (loratadine), Sudafed, Zyrtec (cetirizine), Afrin nasal spray, Benadryl (diphenhyramine).

CONGESTION (nasal):
Mucinex (guaifenesin), saline nasal spray.

COUGH:
Robitussin DM (dextromethorphan), Delsym.

CONSTIPATION:
Dialose, DOSS, Miralax, Surfak, Fibercon.

DIARRHEA:
Immodium AD.

HEARTBURN:
Mylanta, Tums, Rolaids, Pepcid, Zantac.

HEADACHE:
Tylenol (acetaminophen) use first, Advil or Aleve (until 32 weeks).

NAUSEA:
Vitamin B6, Emetrol, ginger, Benadryl, (limit caffeine).

PAIN:
Tylenol first, Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naprosyn) until 32 weeks.

*Please note that the above information is for educational purposes only, as referenced in Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation, 7th edition, Briggs, Freeman and Yaffe.

*For more information, please read “Medication Exposures During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Frequently Asked Questions” at www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/meds/faqs.htm