Medicines To Avoid While Pregnant - A Guide To Safe Medication During Pregnancy

There are certain medicines to avoid while pregnant if you are in the habit of taking over the counter drugs. During pregnancy, your body metabolism slows down, making it more difficult to get rid of toxic substances. You should read all you can about medicines to avoid while pregnant so that you do not take harmful drugs during pregnancy. By getting information on the medicines to avoid while pregnant, you can consult your doctor when you have some doubt about a medicine.

Here are some medications you should be careful about when pregnant.

Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies are perfect for those troubled by pregnancy complications like nausea, constipation, aches and pains. However, before you try any herbal remedy, see if they fall in the list of medicines to avoid while pregnant. Herbal medications should be avoided if the department of health has not cleared them.

Gingko biloba, Echinacea, St. John's Wort can all cause harm if you are not careful. Look at the uses of Spirulina and other herbal drugs carefully before you opt for them. Whatever drug or supplement you decide to use, be sure to talk it over with your physician.

Antibiotics

Most of us are in the habit of popping an antibiotic pill at the slightest sign of a cold or cough. This can harm you in the end. Many antibiotics are medicines to avoid while pregnant. Tetracycline, streptomycin etc should be taken only under the supervision of doctors.

Tranquilizers

Sleepless nights caused by backache and other pregnancy symptoms might make tranquilizers very tempting. Librium and Valium are the most commonly used tranquilizers. Do not take these medications before talking to your doctor. They may be listed as medicines to avoid while pregnant.

MAO Inhibitors

MAO Inhibitors are another class of medicines to avoid while pregnant. They may cause pregnancy side effects in the mother as well as the baby. Common MAO inhibitors like Phenelzine and Isocarboacid cause problems in the baby's development.

Should Women Take Medications When Pregnant?

The question of women taking medications when pregnant has physicians divided. Many medicines are best avoided during pregnancy. However, if some diseases can cause pregnancy complications, then medication becomes necessary. For example, if diabetic women are not treated during pregnancy, it could result in miscarriage. HIV positive women need to take AZT to cut down the risk of transferring the virus to their baby. Some medications to avoid during pregnancy may be necessary if the disease carries more risk for you and the baby.

Most medicines to avoid while pregnant should be the last option; to be taken only when the risks to you and the baby are high due to pregnancy related problems and diseases.