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Safe OTC Cold and Flu Treatment to Use During Pregnancy

Reviewed by Nivin Todd, MD on August 05, 2020

These over-the-counter cold and flu meds have no known harmful effects during pregnancy when you take them according to the package directions. If you want to know about the safety of any other meds, contact your doctor.

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
  • Actifed
  • Saline nasal drops or spray
  • Sudafed
  • Tylenol Sinus
  • Tylenol Cold and Flu
  • Warm salt/water gargle

Check with your doctor before taking any medicines during your pregnancy. Be especially cautious in the first trimester, a crucial time in your baby's development.

Show Sources

SOURCES:

CDC: "Medications and Pregnancy."

Womenshealth.gov: Pregnancy and medicines fact sheet.

American Family Physician: "Over-the-Counter Medications in Pregnancy."

Cleveland Clinic: "Medication Guidelines During Pregnancy."

RxList web site.

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