Over-the-counter Medications That Should Be Avoided In Pregnancy

Which of the following over-the-counter medications is generally avoided during pregnancy?
A) Acetaminophen
B) Chlorpheniramine
C) Pseudoephedrine
D) Dextromethorphan
E) Aspirin

Answer and Discussion



The answer is E.  Aspirin

High-dose aspirin has been theoretically associated with increased perinatal mortality, neonatal hemorrhage, decreased birth weight, prolonged gestation and labor, and possible birth defects and in general should be avoided in pregnancy.
Low-dose aspirin in combination with heparin has been used successfully in the treatment of antiphospholipid syndrome in pregnancy.
The other medications on the list are considered safe in pregnancy, though patients are encouraged to avoid all nonessential medication use in the first trimester and use the lowest possible doses of necessary medications for the limited periods of time for relief of symptoms throughout the remainder of pregnancy.