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Cold and other illnesses are more frequent in pregnancy as the body's immune system is slightly depressed so as to avoid rejection of the baby.
Most antihistamines, decongestants and cough medicines should not be taken during pregnancy unless instructed to do so by the practitioner. They are usually not tested in pregnant women and may have dangerous side effects for the baby. In most cases, it is fine to take Tylenol (
acetaminophen) for minor aches and pains. You should avoid Advil (ibuprofen) and aspirin when pregnant unless instructed to take one by their practitioner.
Wikoryl contains
chlorpheniramine which might cause sedation in your baby and can have adverse effects on your baby. So all these medications are to be avoided to the extent they can.
Dextromethorphan, a common ingredient found in cough and cold medications (such as
Robitussin), is probably safe for use in pregnancy. While the FDA has labeled it category C, some large studies suggest that it does not cause any increase in birth defects or
complications of pregnancy.
Guaifenesin is an expectorant in many cough and cold medicines. It, too, is listed under category C but is probably safe as well.
Home measures to treat cold in pregnancy are :
Get extra rest
Drink plenty of clear fluids; this is even more important when you are pregnant
Try saline nasal sprays or steam inhalation for congestion
Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
Drinking hot water with honey and lemon may help soothe a sore or irritated throat
Consult a doctor personally if your symptoms seem especially severe or last for more than a week; you may have developed a secondary infection, for which you need to start antibiotics.
Azithromycin is safe in pregnancy and a good choice for respiratory infections. Other safe group of antibiotics are penicillins and cephalosporins.