Over the Counter Medication for Use in Pregnancy

Diarrhea

Clear liquids for 24 hours
Gatorade is okay
Imodium AD or Kaepectate as directed

Note: If improvement is noted, follow with BRAT diet and clear liquids (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast)

Call if no improvement after 24 hours.

Sore Throat

Cepacol or Cepastat throat lozenges as directed.
Gargle with salt water - 1/2 tsp. salt in 8 oz warm water
You may also use - Chloraseptic® spray

Cough

"Hold" brand cough drops as directed
Robitussin DM as directed

Pain/Fever

Tylenol regular or Extra Strength as directed
Note: do not exceed 6 tablets in 1 day
No Aleve after your 30th week
No Ibuprofen after your 32nd week

Cold

Sudafed or Actifed or Chlortrimeton or Tavist D as directed
Note: Choose ONE only; DO NOT combine these drugs

Hemorrhoids

Anusol rectal suppositories or Anusol cream
Preparation H
Tucks medicated pads
Sitz baths

Calcium Supplements

OsCal as directed
Tums as directed
Calcitrel as directed

Constipation

Increase fluids, fiber, fruits, and vegetables in diet; also walk every day
Metamucil or Fibercon once per day as directed

Morning Sickness

Take vitamin B6, 25 mg, by mouth, up to three times per day. If nausea is unrelieved take UNISOM, 1/2 tablet, by mouth at bedtime. If no relief in 48 hours, you may increase UNISOM to one tablet at bedtime and continue Vitamin B6 three times per day. If nausea and/or vomiting are persistent notify the doctor's office.

Vomiting/Flu

Clear liquids for 24 hours
One hour after previous emesis (vomiting) try 1 Tbs. clear liquid every 4 hours for fever over 100 degrees.
If fever is more than 100 degrees and does not respond to Tylenol, call a nurse.
Call if no improvement in 24 hours.

Heartburn

Tums (2 with each meal)
Antacids NOT containing aluminum
Try smaller, more frequent meals and remain upright for 30 minutes after eating.
Avoid greasy and acidic foods.