According to studies, about 60% of pregnant women use over-the-counter-medications (OTCs) without consulting their prenatal care provider and without knowing the risks involved. Something to think about is that drugs, as a general rule, aren’t tested on pregnant women to determine safety because that would be unethical. So if you’re taking a drug, there’s a super good chance that it’s never been tested on a pregnant woman.
Consumer Reports also notes that “There is no pregnancy safety data for more than 80% of prescription and OTC drugs, making it extremely difficult for doctors and pharmacists to provide guidance.”
When considering a medication during pregnancy make sure you first ask your health care provider and two that you weigh the pros and cons. Will it harm you more if you don’t take the drug? Do the pros of you taking the drug outweigh the possible risks to your baby? You can also check out this handy guide - 10 over-the-counter drugs to avoid during pregnancy.
A good reference to call if you are taking an over the counter or prescribed medication is the Teratogen Information Service, 1800-733-4727, they are a free pregnancy risk line that can answer questions you might have with meds, environmental exposures, even breastfeeding. I have used them when I ha sever allergies this fall and I was dying to take something to give me some relief, and they answered all my questions and more!
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Comment added November 23rd, 2009 at 1:03 pm
A good reference to call if you are taking an over the counter or prescribed medication is the Teratogen Information Service, 1800-733-4727, they are a free pregnancy risk line that can answer questions you might have with meds, environmental exposures, even breastfeeding. I have used them when I ha sever allergies this fall and I was dying to take something to give me some relief, and they answered all my questions and more!