Practical guide to safe medication use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The use of medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding is an important topic that concerns many women. Taking medication during these periods requires special attention, as certain substances can affect fetal development or pass into breast milk.
Every decision should always be made in consultation with the treating physician. The following guide provides general guidelines for the most common complaints.
As a general rule, medication should be avoided during pregnancy — especially during the first trimester — unless the physician determines that the benefit outweighs the risk. Self-medication should always be avoided.
For a cold with nasal discharge: nasal rinses with saline solution (Physiomer, Sinomarin), saltwater gargles, throat lozenges (Halls, Strepsils). Acetaminophen 500–1000 mg (up to 3 g/day) is considered safe in all trimesters and during breastfeeding. Vicks nasal spray or ointment as needed. For productive cough: Mucosolvan, Fluimucil, or Hexacough syrup — safe in all trimesters and during breastfeeding.
For heartburn: small and frequent meals, avoid lying down after eating, Maalox or TUMS. For nausea: small meals, ginger, crackers, BESIX or Emetostop. For constipation: fiber-rich diet, increased water intake, Duphalac syrup or glycerin suppositories as needed.
Managing constipation is a key measure for preventing and treating hemorrhoids. Topical preparations (PROCTO-SYNALAR cream/suppositories) can be applied locally 2-3 times daily. For varicose veins of the lower limbs: leg elevation and HEMERAN GEL topically. For cramps: Trofocard Mg up to 4 times daily.
The above information is general and informational in nature. Before taking any medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding, always consult with your gynecologist or obstetrician.
