It is common to keep some medications at home in case of an emergency or for routine treatment—aspirin and ibuprofen for pain relief and antibiotics for cough and fever. But during pregnancy, regular drugs (medicines) might not be safe. Here is a list of commonly used drugs and a summary of their effects on fetal health.
Pain killers
Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and diclofenac can be prescribed for mild pain, but this can lead to miscarriages during the first trimester. In the third trimester, these drugs may induce nephrotoxicity (harmful effects on the kidneys). Aspirin can cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus (a blood vessel that supplies the baby’s lungs before birth) and gastroschisis (a hole in the abdomen of the baby).
Opioids like tramadol, codeine, morphine, oxycodone, hydromorphone, hydrocodone, and pethidine relieve moderate to severe pain. If taken for a longer period during pregnancy, it will induce drug dependence in the fetus.
Antibiotics
The concentration of antibiotics decreases in the blood during pregnancy due to their faster excretion (removal) by the kidneys. Medical intervention is often required to increase the concentration of the antibiotic. However, only a few antibiotics can be prescribed. Antibiotics like tetracyclines, gentamycin, and tobramycin have adverse effects on the baby’s development. Tetracycline affects bone formation, while others may affect hearing and kidney functions.
Acne medication
Common acne medications are antibiotics, retinol, sunscreens, bleaching agents, and hydroquinone. All such agents must be avoided orally or systemically (when absorbed in the blood). Except for hydroquinone, all other agents can generally be applied topically (on the skin) because hydroquinone gets absorbed in the skin and can then affect the baby.
Anticoagulant (blood thinner)
Warfarin is a blood-thinning medicine that crosses the placenta (the mechanical connection between mother and baby) and is harmful to the baby. It can lead to hemorrhagic complications in the fetus and mother and fetal loss. So, this medicine is avoided during pregnancy. LMWH (low molecular heparin) is safe because it cannot cross the placenta.
Antihypertensives
Antihypertensives normalize blood pressure when it is on the higher side. But during pregnancy, this can cause some issues with the fetus, like it may affect the kidney functions of the baby. A group of these drugs decreases the amount of fluid that is present in the sac around the baby.
Antiemetic
Antiemetic drugs are prescribed to treat nausea and vomiting. It is not recommended to try curing morning sickness with antiemetics. Ondansetron and domperidone are also not recommended during pregnancy due to their adverse effects on fetal growth. It may increase the number of minor heart defects in the baby.
Antiallergics
Pruritus (itchy skin) is another common issue during pregnancy, generally due to an allergen. It is recommended to rule out the cause before giving symptomatic relief. Avoid any medications during the first trimester. Codeine or Benadryl should not be taken during pregnancy.
An insight from mamahood
Pregnancy is a unique and sensitive phase in a woman’s life. The mother’s diet and medications may affect the condition of the fetus. It is necessary to be more careful with medicines because of their strong chemical nature and ability to cross the placenta. We do not suggest that you completely stop taking medications during pregnancy, but we ensure you do not take any self-prescribed medicines. There are always some safe margins and alternatives for non-indicative medications. Always consult your doctor for any advice. A specialist will analyze your condition and treat you accordingly.
