Is it safe to use over the counter medicines or prescription drugs during your pregnancy?

Unfortunately, there is no real clear cut answer to that question. Only you and your doctor can make that decision and you should never stop or start any medications without talking to your health care provider first. Some pregnant women depend on medications to help them with serious, long term illnesses like asthma, diabetes, depression or seizures. When discussing whether or not to continue a medication with your doctor, make sure to write down the benefits and risks in order to help you make your decision.

Links to more information:

March of Dimes

Information about over the counter medication, herbal remedies, and prescription drugs

Women’sHealth.gov

Information about medicines and pregnancy

If abusing prescription drugs has become a part of your life, there has never been a better time to stop than now.

Abuse of these drugs can not only be harmful to you, they can cause a lot of problems for your growing baby including malformed limbs and organs, and damage to the brain. Help is available here.

How do I know if I am abusing prescription drugs?

Do you take more than is prescribed?

Longer than they are prescribed?

For a different reason than they are prescribed?

If you answered yes to any of the questions above, you may be abusing prescription drugs and need help to stop.

More info (NIDA website)

Find a treatment center (go to online locator)