Medications to Avoid During Pregnancy: What Every Mama Needs to Know

Pregnancy is such a special time, your body is working hard to grow and protect your baby. But did you know that some everyday medicines that feel normal to take when you’re not pregnant can actually be harmful during pregnancy?

Whether you’re trying to stay ahead of pain, treat malaria, or even fight a cold, it's so important to know what’s safe and what’s not. Let’s walk through some medications you should avoid, and why you should always double-check with a doctor before taking anything, even herbal remedies.

1. Painkillers Like Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, or Aspirin These are common go-tos for headaches, period pain, or body aches, but in pregnancy, they can cause complications like bleeding, miscarriage, or affect your baby’s development (especially in the third trimester). Stick to paracetamol (Panadol) when needed, and only in safe doses.

2. Some Antibiotics Not all antibiotics are safe for pregnancy. Drugs like:

• Tetracycline
• Doxycycline
• Ciprofloxacin
• Septrin (Cotrimoxazole)

can affect your baby’s teeth, bones, or folic acid levels. If you need antibiotics, let your doctor know you're pregnant so they can prescribe a safer option like amoxicillin or erythromycin if appropriate.

3. Malaria Medications Malaria is serious during pregnancy, but so is choosing the right treatment. Some anti-malaria drugs like:

• Artemether-based combinations (like Coartem, Lonart), not safe in early pregnancy
• Quinine – risky without medical supervision
• Fansidar – often avoided in pregnancy

There are safer options depending on the stage of pregnancy, so always see a doctor first before treating malaria.

4. Cold and Flu Medications Some over-the-counter cold meds contain ingredients like:

• Pseudoephedrine
• Phenylephrine

These can affect blood flow to the placenta and may not be safe for your baby. Also, strong antihistamines or cough syrups may not be pregnancy-friendly unless prescribed.

5. Herbal Remedies and Teas We understand, sometimes herbal teas or local remedies like agbo, bitter leaf water, or “cleansing” teas feel like the natural way to go. But natural doesn't always mean safe. Some of these mixtures can:

• Trigger contractions
• Affect your liver
• Interfere with baby’s growth

If you’re ever unsure, ask a doctor or midwife before using anything herbal.

6. Skin Creams with Hydroquinone or Retinoids Many skin-lightening products or acne treatments contain strong ingredients like:

• Hydroquinone
• Retinoids (like tretinoin)

These should be avoided in pregnancy, they can affect your baby’s development. Look for gentler, pregnancy-safe skincare alternatives.

What’s Generally Safe (But Still Ask Your Doctor First):

• Paracetamol (Panadol) – for mild pain or fever
• Prenatal vitamins – especially iron and folic acid
• Antacids – like Gaviscon, if you’re dealing with heartburn
• Mild allergy meds – like chlorpheniramine (with guidance)

Pregnancy is not the time to guess when it comes to medications. Even common drugs or herbs can affect your baby’s health in ways you may not see right away. Always ask your doctor, nurse, or midwife before taking any medicine, even if it’s something you’ve used for years.

**Your baby is depending on you, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. **