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Safe medicationsSafety of Over the Counter Medications in PregnancyCertain over the counter medications may be recommended for minor complaints, such as colds and allergies. Every medication, though, has side effects that should be considered. No single over the counter medication is safe, without consideration of the many factors that influence the health of your pregnancy.Use caution. Try other symptomatic relief measures before taking over the counter medications. Many women make a concerted effort not to take medications unless they are absolutely necessary. This is especially true in the first trimester when the fetus is most vulnerable. You must always weigh the benefits and risks of medications. This recommendation also pertains to the many herbal and organic products on the market, many of which have not been studied nearly as much as the OTC medications. Herbal remedies, other than those specifically recommended by your physician, should be avoided, as their safety in pregnancy is unproven. Megadoses of vitamins may potentially harm the mother or the baby. Prenatal vitamins, iron supplements, and other vitamin/mineral supplements should only be taken under the direction of your health care provider.
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