Are you a soon-to-be mom looking for relief from the common cold during your pregnancy? If so, you have likely read conflicting information about whether or not medications like Robitussin are considered safe to take while expecting.
So, Is Robitussin safe during pregnancy?
Robitussin DM is a cough remedy that contains guaifenesin and dextromethorphan. Guaifenesin helps to loosen mucus while dextromethorphan suppresses coughing. It is safe to use both ingredients during pregnancy.
In this blog post, we’ll be discussing several factors related to Robitussin safety during pregnancy and how taking this popular cold remedy may affect your baby’s health.
What Is Robitussin And What Are Its Active Ingredients?
Robitussin is a cough medicine similar to any other cough drops or over-the-counter medications for cold and cough that contain the active ingredient dextromethorphan. Robitussin is available as a syrup, capsule, or tablet.
Robitussin can be an effective way to relieve your cough, but it is important to follow the directions on the label carefully and not take more than the recommended dosage.
Is Robitussin Safe During Pregnancy Or Breastfeeding?
It is a brand name for the drug guaifenesin, which is an expectorant. Guaifenesin has been used safely in pregnancy for many years with no reports of harm to the mother or baby.
There are two main types of Robitussin products: those that contain only guaifenesin and those that also contain a decongestant, such as pseudoephedrine. They can also cross the placenta and enter into breast milk, which may not be safe for your baby.
Because Robitussin isn’t FDA-approved for use during pregnancy, it has not been evaluated for safety.
Robitussin is not simple to take without suffering negative side effects during pregnancy. Women who are pregnant should only take 120mg of Robitussin once every 24 hours.
However, it’s worth noting that one other active ingredient in Robitussin cough syrup, namely alcohol, is not permitted.
Aside from this, Robitussin’s components have been known to cause a variety of adverse effects, although this is uncommon. Headaches, dizziness, rash, drowsiness, and even constipation are among the unwanted symptoms.
It is critical to take a cold illness seriously, even if you don’t feel so sick. Colds can progress into something more serious, such as pneumonia, which might lead to numerous issues for both you and your baby.
You should also talk to your doctor before using Robitussin or any other over-the-counter medicine since they might interact badly with other medicines you’re taking.
When you’re expecting, your immune system is frequently somewhat less effective, making you more susceptible to catching a cold.
It might also take longer for your symptoms to heal. If you don’t want to use Robitussin and are unsure about other medicines, the following natural treatments may help:
- Keep sipping fluids and stay hydrated at all times.
- Spraying a salt and water solution into your congested nose several times a day will cure the condition.
- Remove any objects that could make you sick. It might be staying warm all of the time, sipping hot beverages like tea and soups, and avoiding dusty locations. Polluted regions can also contribute to your cough getting worse, so avoid them as much as possible during flu season.
Is Robitussin Safe During Pregnancy? If So What Is The Recommended Dosage?
The short answer is that it is safe and you can take about two tablespoons of Robitussin (guaifenesin) while pregnant or breastfeeding without harming your baby. But only if your doctor has okayed it. They will likely only do so if you have a severe cough that isn’t responding to other treatments and they feel the benefits outweigh the risks.
Dextromethorphan is classified as a category C drug by the FDA, which means there’s not enough evidence to say definitively that it’s safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. However, animal studies have shown that it can cross the placenta and enter breast milk in small amounts.
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding and looking for a natural way to relieve your cough, try some herbal remedies first. If those don’t work, talk to your doctor about taking Robitussin. They will likely only recommend it if they feel the benefits outweigh the risks and you only need to take a small amount for a short period.
What Are The Side Effects Of Taking Robitussin While Pregnant Or Breastfeeding?
Robitussin is a medication that is generally considered safe to take during pregnancy, but there are some potential side effects that you should be aware of.
Drowsiness
The most common side effect of taking Robitussin while pregnant is drowsiness. This can be a problem if you are trying to work or take care of your children during the day. If you find that you are feeling drowsy after taking Robitussin, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and get some rest.
Gastric Problems
Robitussin can also cause an upset stomach, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation. If you experience any of these side effects, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and eat a balanced diet.
Birth Defects
Robitussin has also been linked to an increased risk of birth defects.
Robitussin is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but there are some potential side effects that you should be aware of.
Alternative Cold Medicine For Pregnant Women?
Some possible options include:
- Zarbee’s Naturals Baby Cough Syrup + Mucus Reducer.
- Vicks BabyRub Soothing Ointment.
- Little Remedies Tummy Relief Gas Drops.
- Phenylephrine is a medication used to help relieve nasal congestion and pressure. It is often used as a decongestant during pregnancy.
- Dextromethorphan is a steroid that can help reduce inflammation. It is sometimes used to treat nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can you take Mucinex while pregnant?
Ans: No, you should not take Mucinex while pregnant. It is not known if it is safe for pregnant women. If you are pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider about other options.
Q2: Is Robitussin DM pregnancy safe?
Ans: Robitussin DM is generally considered safe to take during pregnancy. However, as with any medication, it is always best to speak with your healthcare provider before taking anything during pregnancy.
Additionally, it is important to be aware that Robitussin DM contains dextromethorphan, which can cross the placenta and potentially lead to some adverse effects in the newborn. Therefore, it is generally recommended that Robitussin DM be used only when absolutely necessary during pregnancy.
Q3: What cold medicine can I take while pregnant?
Ans: There are several cold medicines that are considered safe for pregnant women. These include saline nasal spray, Tylenol Cold & Sinus.
Q4: Can you take Sudafed while pregnant?
Ans: Sudafed is a decongestant that is used to relieve nasal and sinus congestion. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it can cross the placenta and affect the fetus.
Sudafed can also increase blood pressure and heart rate, which may be harmful to the mother and baby. If you are pregnant and have congestive symptoms, talk to your doctor about safe and effective treatments.
Conclusion
The consensus is that it is probably okay to take in small doses. However, as with anything else, you should always check with your doctor first before taking any cold medications, even over-the-counter ones like this. Better safe than sorry.
