Expectant mothers: How to use medicines and supplements safely during pregnancy

Pregnancy changes how your body responds to drugs and supplements. A pill that was fine before might need review once you’re pregnant. You don’t have to memorize every rule—these clear, practical tips help you make safer choices and know the right questions to ask your clinician.

Medications to check or avoid

Some drugs are commonly used but need special care in pregnancy:

• Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is usually the first choice for pain and fever. Use the lowest effective dose and talk to your doctor if you need it often.
• NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) are best avoided, especially after 20 weeks and into the third trimester. They can affect fetal circulation and labor.
• Antibiotics: avoid tetracyclines (doxycycline) and be cautious with fluoroquinolones like ciprofloxacin unless the prescriber says they’re necessary.
• Anti-nausea options: for morning sickness, first-line choices are vitamin B6 plus doxylamine (available as a prescription combo in some places). Ginger and small, frequent meals also help. If symptoms are severe, your clinician may discuss ondansetron or other options—don’t start it without guidance.
• Mood and psychiatric meds: drugs like duloxetine (Cymbalta) or antipsychotics may need careful management. Stopping suddenly can harm both you and the baby—work with your OB and psychiatrist.

Supplements, probiotics, and buying meds online

Pills labeled “natural” aren’t automatically safe. High-dose vitamin A (retinol) can cause birth defects, so avoid supplements that list retinol or high amounts of preformed vitamin A. Prenatal vitamins should include folic acid (400–800 mcg), iron, and iodine—those three matter most early on.

Probiotics like kefir can help digestion and may be fine in pregnancy if the product is pasteurized and made under hygienic conditions. For herbal extracts (for example, garlic supplements), check with your provider—some herbs can affect blood clotting or interact with medicines.

Ordering meds online? Use verified pharmacies that require a prescription, show clear contact details, and are accredited by local regulators or the NABP/VIPPS program. Don’t buy from sites that offer controlled meds without a prescription.

Final checklist before taking anything while pregnant: ask your OB or midwife, check trusted resources (MotherToBaby, FDA pregnancy labeling), confirm doses, and prefer products with transparent labeling. If you’re unsure, pause and call your clinician—small delays often beat the risk of a wrong choice.

Need help with a specific medicine or supplement? Bring the bottle or label to your next appointment or message your pharmacy—an informed conversation is the safest step for you and your baby.