Medications and Drugs

You’ve got a headache — can you take ibuprofen? What about an herbal cream for muscle aches — is it safe? During pregnancy, some medications are safe; others may pose problems. Talk to your healthcare provider to be sure you’re not putting yourself or baby at risk.

Before taking any recommended over-the-counter (OTC) meds, prescriptions or medicinal herbs during your pregnancy, ask your healthcare provider these questions:

• What is this medicine or herb?
• What does it treat?
• What side effects might my baby or I experience?
• What is the smallest effective dose?
• How long will I need to take this medication?

Be cautious about using medications that contain multiple ingredients. They are more likely to contain extra substances that may harm your baby.

Also, be aware that many OTC medications contain alcohol. For example, some cough medicines are 25 percent alcohol. Ask your healthcare provider if you should use such products during pregnancy.

Supplements

Supplements, such as a vitamin B, C or iron supplement, are intended to supply nutrients that may be lacking in your diet. If you’re pregnant, you should take a folic acid supplement every day to prevent birth defects. Most prenatal supplements provide the recommended amount of 600 mcg folic acid daily. Talk to your healthcare provider about taking any other supplements.

Opioids

Prescription painkillers, called opioids, include codeine, morphine and oxycodone. According to the March of Dimes, opioids may cause serious problems during pregnancy, including premature birth and neonatal abstinence syndrome (withdrawal from drug exposure in the womb before birth).

If you’re taking opioids for pain, talk with your clinician about stopping them before you get pregnant. If you’re already pregnant, don’t quit taking opioids suddenly, which can cause severe problems for you and your baby.

Recreational Drugs

Be sure to tell your doctor if you’ve used drugs at any time during your pregnancy — and to get help on how to quit for a healthier pregnancy. Drugs can increase the risk for premature birth, poor growth, and behavior or learning problems in your baby, or even cause your baby to become addicted to the drug before they’re born.