NyQuil During Pregnancy: Is it Safe?
For many expectant mothers, a good night’s sleep is a rare luxury. But when it comes to taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications to help get some rest, is NyQuil a safe option?
What is NyQuil?
NyQuil is an over-the-counter medication widely available in drugstores and grocery stores. It is used for the short-term relief of symptoms associated with the common cold, including sneezing, coughing, headache, minor aches and pains, fever and runny nose.
NyQuil Ingredients
The active ingredients in NyQuil include:
- acetaminophen – to reduce fever and relieve minor aches and pains
- dextromethorphan – to reduce coughs
- doxylamine succinate – to relieve sneezing, itchy nose, coughing and runny nose.
NyQuil and Pregnancy
It is generally not recommended to take NyQuil, or any OTC drug or medication, during pregnancy unless specifically advised by a doctor as it could potentially harm the developing baby.
Risk of Taking NyQuil During Pregnancy
When taken during pregnancy, NyQuil can pass through the placenta and into the baby’s bloodstream, possibly affecting the baby’s brain and organ development.
Safe Alternatives To NyQuil
Before taking any medication while pregnant, it is always best to talk to your healthcare provider. In the case of NyQuil, here are some safe alternatives:
- Rest and relaxation – low-impact physical activity, yoga, deep breathing and other relaxing activities.
- Steam shower or hot bath – steam can help reduce coughing and congestion.
- Drinking lots of fluids – this can help thin out mucus and reduce coughs, sneezes and runny nose.
- Humidifier – can help provide relief from a dry throat and reduce mucus build-up.
- Salt water gargle – helps relieve sore throats.
- Honey – can help reduce coughing and soothe sore throats.
When To Call The Doctor?
If you are feeling really unwell, it is best to call your doctor as they may be able to prescribe a safe medication to help you manage your symptoms. It is important to let your healthcare provider know if you are pregnant before taking any medication.
Whether you are experiencing a cold or flu-like symptoms, always be sure to talk with your healthcare provider before taking any OTC or prescription medications during your pregnancy.
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