5 Types of drugs without a prescription that should be avoided when pregnant

Not all drugs are safe to take while pregnant. Why? During pregnancy, drugs to relieve minor ailments, such as headaches, can be very risky for the mother and the baby in her womb. The method is actually easy, always ask your doctor first before you take any medicine. What are the drugs that pregnant women should avoid?

A variety of over-the-counter drugs that should be avoided when pregnant

When you have pain, you can take paracetamol which can be purchased at a pharmacy. However, when pregnant, taking medicines without a prescription is not that easy. You have to be extra careful because it is feared that the drug content could hurt the baby. Here are some drugs that should be avoided during pregnancy:

1. Aspirin

If you experience headaches or body aches while pregnant, you should avoid aspirin. Even though it is an easy drug to find, aspirin is one of the lists of drugs that pregnant women should avoid. Taking high doses of aspirin during pregnancy can put you at risk of causing a miscarriage or placental abruption.

2. Ibuprofen

While pregnant, it is not recommended that you take ibuprofen for chills or body aches. Taking ibuprofen during pregnancy can increase the risk of pregnancy complications.

Babies can have heart problems, reduced amniotic fluid, or have a miscarriage. You can use this drug, only if it is absolutely recommended by your doctor.

3. Isotretinoin

This type of medication is often used to treat severe acne. However, while you are planning to become pregnant, you should stop using this drug for at least 2 months.

Pregnant women should avoid using isotretinoin because it risks causing the unborn baby to experience birth defects or neurocognitive disorders (neurological disorders related to cognitive abilities).

4. Antifungal drugs

Yeast infection can occur during pregnancy, but the use of some antifungal drugs is not recommended. Especially if the drug is used without the supervision of a doctor.

It is feared that the use of antifungal drugs can inhibit the rate of fetal development in the womb. These medicinal substances penetrate the placenta and mix with the bloodstream.

5. Anticonvulsants

This drug is often prescribed to treat seizures and maintain the stability of nerve cells in receiving stimuli. Anticonvulsants, such as diazepam or clonazepam, can increase the risk of premature birth or miscarriage.

What needs to be considered

There may be other medicines not listed above. If you are pregnant and have to take any medication, always consult your doctor first. During pregnancy, avoid taking medicines without a prescription if you have not received confirmation from your doctor, midwife, or pharmacist.

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