What over-the-counter medications are safe, and in what amount? Are there any I should avoid?

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Here is a useful and comprehensive list of medications and possible treatments you can consider for the management of common ailments in pregnancy: http://singacare.com/management-of-common-ailments-in-pregnancy/ For a quick reference (from this website: http://www.newagepregnancy.com/taking-medications-during-pregnancy/) Here is a list of medications safe for consumption during pregnancy: - Paracetamol – the pain reliever of choice during pregnancy. It is completely safe in pregnancy. - Cold medications – most antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine, clarityne, pseudoephedrine are safe during pregnancy. - Cough syrups – most are safe to consume during pregnancy. - Allergy – almost any of the allergy medicines are safe during pregnancy. - Constipation – drink more water, increase fibers. If constipation is bad, any of the stool softeners are safe. - Diarrhoea – Imodium is safe during pregnancy. - Yeast infections – any of the OTC medicines are safe during pregnancy. Diflucan is technically safe during pregnancy. - Sore throat – any kind of lozenges is safe in pregnancy. And here’s the list of what to avoid: - Diet medications – are not safe during pregnancy. Dieting during pregnancy is also strongly discouraged as fetal growth can be affected. - Vitamin A (Oral) – used to treat severe acne, oral vitamin A (Roaccutane, Acnotin) is strictly contraindicated during pregnancy due to the high risk of fetal teratogenicity. - Antibiotics – Certain antibiotics such as tetracycline is contraindicated during pregnancy due to possible effects on dentition in the child. - Pain killers belonging to the Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug group – these should be avoided during pregnancy. - Herbal remedies – some herbs can have harmful effects to the fetus. There is lack of data on herb usage during pregnancy. A check with the herbalist/Chinese physician is advised before consuming herbs. Still, I would advise that you check with your doctor first before taking any medications or herbs. Hope this helps!

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