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10 drugs that are safer in pregnancy
- No drug is completely safe in pregnancy
- But you always have to weigh the up the risks to the mother and baby of not treating the illness.
- Here’s a list of 10 drugs that are considered relatively safer in pregnancy, along with some key considerations.
- Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): For pain and fever relief.
- Penicillin: For bacterial infections (e.g. UTIs; where Nitrofurantoin is also used).
- Metoclopramide: For nausea and vomiting (short-term use).
- Folic Acid: Essential for preventing neural tube defects.
- Insulin: For managing diabetes.
- Iron Supplements: For treating iron deficiency anaemia.
- Low-dose Aspirin: For preventing pre-eclampsia in high-risk pregnancies (under specialist guidance).
- Metformin: For gestational diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), though insulin may be preferred in some cases.
- Ondansetron: For severe nausea and vomiting (used cautiously).
- Ranitidine (when available) or Omeprazole: For heartburn and acid reflux.
Prescribing in pregnancy
When prescribing medications in pregnancy, consider the following:
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Always consult the UK Teratology Information Service (UKTIS) or the British National Formulary (BNF) for the most current guidance.
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Weigh the benefits and risks of each medication.
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Collaborate with obstetric specialists when managing complex cases.
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Monitor patients closely for any adverse effects.
Other resource
Drugs that are less safe in pregnancy
