Prescription Medications During Pregnancy.
Why should I discuss my prescription medications with my doctor?
This is a very important aspect of your prenatal care. Discuss all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) you take on a regular basis at your first prenatal visit. You may need to have your dosage adjusted, you may have to stop taking a particular substance or certain conditions may require additional medication.
I take thyroid medication. Is it necessary during pregnancy?
Yes, it's very important to continue taking your thyroid medication throughout your pregnancy. Be sure your doctor knows what you take. Why is thyroid medication important in pregnancy?
Thyroid hormone is made in the thyroid gland. This hormone affects your entire body and is important in your metabolism. Thyroid hormone is also important in your ability to get pregnant.
Can medications for thyroid problems be taken safely during pregnancy?
Thyroxin (medication for low thyroid or hypothyroid) is acceptable to use. Propylthiouracil (high-thyroid or hyperthyroid medication) passes to the baby; you will probably be given the lowest amount possible during your pregnancy.
I have lupus, and I take medication every day. Can this affect my pregnancy?
The medication used to treat lupus is steroids; the primary steroid given is prednisone. Many studies have been done on the safety of prednisone during pregnancy and it has been found to be safe.
Before pregnancy, I took Prozac for depression. Can I continue taking it?
Studies indicate Prozac is acceptable for use during pregnancy.
Skin Medication
I asked my doctor for a prescription for Accutane to treat my acne, but she told me she couldn't prescribe it because I'm pregnant. Why?
Accutane (retinoic acid isotretinoin) is a common treatment for acne. However, pregnant women must not take it! There is a higher frequency of miscarriage and fetal malformation if a woman takes Accutane during the 1st trimester of pregnancy.
I use Retin-A for my skin. Should I discontinue using it now that I'm pregnant?
Yes. Any type of medication you use can get into your bloodstream, which could be passed to your baby. Avoid Retin-A during pregnancy because we don't know the extent of its effects on the fetus.
I often take tetracycline for a skin problem, but my brother warned me it can harm my baby. How?
Do not take tetracycline during pregnancy because it can cause discoloration of your baby's permanent teeth later in life. For that reason, tetracyclines should not be prescribed for any child under age 8.
I occasionally use a steroid cream for a skin condition I have. Can I use it during pregnancy?
It's best to discuss this with your doctor. There may be another preparation you can use that is safer during pregnancy.
Is it OK for me to take aspirin during my pregnancy?
Almost any medication you take when you are pregnant passes to your baby or has some effect on your pregnancy. Most doctors recommend you avoid aspirin during pregnancy because it can increase bleeding. Discuss aspirin use with your doctor.
Can I take vitamins and minerals while I'm pregnant?
Don't assume these are safe! Discuss with your doctor any vitamins or minerals you take. See page 117 for detailed information on vitamin and mineral usage during pregnancy.
Won't my doctor or the nurses get mad if I call them about every medication I'm thinking of taking?
No. They would rather answer a question about medication use before you take something than worry about its effect on your baby after you have taken it.
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