Staying Safe: What Medications Are Okay to Take During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey—but it can come with plenty of new questions, especially when you're not feeling your best. Whether you're battling allergies, heartburn, or morning sickness, it's natural to wonder: Can I take anything for this? And if so, what’s actually safe for me and my baby?

At Women’s Health Associates, we understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate medication safety during pregnancy. That’s why we’re here to help guide you through it with trusted, evidence-based support.

Real Answers from Providers You Trust

Your pregnancy is unique, and what’s safe for one person may not be recommended for another. That’s why personalized medical guidance matters.

“When you have reliable information and compassionate care, you feel more confident and at ease,” says Dr. Kimberly Matthew at Women’s Health Associates. “That’s what we offer—real support, every step of the way.”

Before taking any new medication—even those available over the counter—it’s always best to talk with your healthcare provider. Together, we can review your symptoms, overall health, and trimester-specific considerations to make the safest choice.

Safe Options for Common Symptoms

While individual care is key, there are general guidelines that can help you better understand which medications are commonly considered safe during pregnancy:

• Headaches, Fever, or Body Aches
  Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is typically the go-to pain reliever. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) unless specifically approved by your doctor.
  
  
• Allergies or Sinus Congestion
  Antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec), and nasal sprays like fluticasone (Flonase), may offer safe relief.
  
  
• Heartburn and Indigestion
  Tums, Pepcid, and other antacids are often helpful. Be sure to monitor your symptoms and let your provider know if they become persistent.
  
  
• Constipation
  Stool softeners (Colace) and fiber supplements (Metamucil, Fibercon) are commonly used. Staying hydrated and active also helps.
  
  
• Morning Sickness
  Vitamin B6 and doxylamine (Unisom) are often recommended. Ginger chews and peppermint lozenges may provide natural relief as well.

Use Reliable, Evidence-Based Sources

https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/medicines-safe-during-pregnancy

It’s tempting to rely on search engines or social media for quick answers—but not all advice online is created equal. For the most up-to-date and clinically supported information, we recommend two trusted resources:

• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) offers a helpful FAQ on medications considered safe during pregnancy.
  
  
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides research-backed information through its Treating for Two initiative, helping pregnant people make informed medication decisions.

Questions? We’re Here to Help

At Women’s Health Associates, we’re committed to supporting women’s health and wellness at every stage of life. As a trusted OB/GYN clinic in Kansas City, our team offers personalized guidance on medication safety during pregnancy to help you feel informed and confident.

Understanding what over-the-counter medications are considered safe—especially for common symptoms like allergies, headaches, and morning sickness—can ease stress during pregnancy. “When you have reliable information and compassionate care, you feel more confident and at ease,” says Dr. Kimberly Matthews. “That’s what we offer—real support, every step of the way.”

If you’re pregnant and unsure about which medications are safe, our care team is here to help. Call us at 913-677-3113 to speak with a team member or request a printed Safe Medications Reference guide. With two convenient Kansas City area locations, Women’s Health Associates is proud to be your partner in pregnancy care and total wellness.

Safe Medications in Pregnancy List

The following medications may be taken safely during pregnancy to treat common symptoms. We recommend that you try to use non-drug treatments first. If you do not get relief, use the following medications. Please follow the directions on the bottle/packaging for dosing instructions. Both generic and common brand names are listed below.

Allergies
Cetirizine (Zyrtec or Zyrtec D)
Fexofenadine (Allegra or Allegra D)
Loratadine (Claritin or Claritin D)
Levocetirizine (Xyzal)
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Tylenol Allergy/Sinus (Acetaminophen)
Fluticasone Propionate Spray (Flonase)

Back Pain
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Bengay Lidocaine Cream
Icy Hot
Menthol Topical (Biofreeze Gel)

Constipation
Polycarbophil Calcium (Fibercon) Psyllium
Fiber Supplement (Metamucil/Fiberall)
Polyethylene glycol 3350 (Miralax)
Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
Methylcellulose (Citracil)
Docusate Sodium (Colace)
Magnesium Hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia)
Senna (Senokot)
Smooth Move Tea
Peppermint Tea

Cold/Sinuses
Acetaminophen (Tylenol Cold + Flu Severe + Cough)
Cromolyn (Nasalcrom)
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Guaifenesin (Mucinex)
Oxymetazoline (Dristan)
Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed/Actifed)
Saline Nasal Spray

Cough
Chloraseptic Spray Dextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin DM, or Plain)
Vicks Vapor Rub
Guaifenesin (Mucinex)

Diarrhea
Loperamide (Imodium)

Fever/Aches
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Heartburn/Indigestion/Gas
Calcium Carbonate (Tums/Rolaids)
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Esomeprazole (Nexium)
Famotidine (Pepcid)
Lansoprazole (Prevacid)
Omeprazole (Prilosec)
Hydroxide/Magnesium Hydroxide/Simethicone (Mylanta/Maalox)
Magnesium Hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia)
Simethicone (Mylicon or Gas-X)

Headache
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) – Regular or Extra Strength
Magnesium Oxide

Hemorrhoids
Phenylephrine/Lidocaine/Petrolatum (Preparation H)
Witch Hazel (Tucks Pads)
Hydrocortisone Acetate (Anusol)
Benzocaine (Dermoplast)

Insomnia
Acetaminophen/Diphenhydramine (Tylenol PM)
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Doxylamine (Unisom)

Motion Sickness
Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)
Meclizine (Antivert/Bonine)

Nausea
Doxylamine (Unisom ½ tablet) + Vitamin B6
Ginger Lozenges or Chews
Peppermint Lozenges

Skin Conditions
Triple Antibiotic Ointment (Neosporin)
Hydrocortisone Cream 0.5% or 1% (Cortizone)

Sore Throat
Menthol (Halls Drops)
Chloraseptic Spray
Benzocaine (Cepacol)
Dyclonine/Dyclocaine (Sucrets)

Yeast Infection
Clotrimazole (Lotrimin/Gyne-Lotrimin)
Miconazole (Monistat 3 or 7)

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.