Over-the-Counter Medicines During Pregnancy: What to Know

During pregnancy, some commonly used medicines are off-limits, while others should be used only as a last resort. Although proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are generally considered safe during pregnancy, providers often recommend them as a last resort, said Tania Lopez, CNM, a certified nurse-midwife at Pediatrix® OB Hospitalists of Texas. It’s best to try dietary changes, calcium carbonate antacids (such as Tums) or H2 blockers before a PPI, since more is known about their safety. According to Lopez, anti-diarrheals like Imodium are safe to use in pregnancy for a short period of time. Call your provider if diarrhea lasts more than two days, symptoms are severe or you have more than 8 to 10 episodes in a day, she said. Your provider may want to monitor you and help you rehydrate.

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