Medication Safety During Early Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Medications during pregnancy

Hello Doctor: I am currently seven weeks pregnant and have not yet confirmed a heartbeat.
The day before yesterday, I experienced persistent nausea and vomiting, followed by a fever in the evening with temperatures ranging from 37.9 to 38.3 degrees Celsius.
During the fever, I had lower back pain and a sore throat, but I did not feel cold.
Since it was a holiday and there were no outpatient services, I visited the obstetrics and gynecology department yesterday morning.
The doctor prescribed the following medications: 1.
Kerfenmycin 250mg 2.
PARAN 500mg 3.
BUWECON 0.125mg 4.
IWELL TABLETS "EVE".
Are these medications safe for the fetus? After taking the medications for two meals, my most uncomfortable lower back pain has alleviated, and my sore throat is gone.
Can I stop taking the medications? I look forward to your reply.
Thank you.

Xiao Yun, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/11/19

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Currently, I am seven weeks pregnant and have not yet confirmed a heartbeat.
The day before yesterday, I experienced persistent nausea and vomiting, followed by a fever in the evening with temperatures ranging from 37.9 to 38.3 degrees Celsius.
During the fever, I also had lower back pain and a sore throat, but did not feel cold.
Since it was a holiday and there were no clinics open, I went to see an obstetrician-gynecologist yesterday morning.
The doctor prescribed the following medications: 1.
Kerfenmycin 250mg 2.
PARAN 500mg 3.
BUWECON 0.125mg 4.
IWELL TABLETS "EVE".
Are these medications safe for the fetus? Answer: The use of these medications is not absolutely safe for a seven-week-old fetus.
After taking the medications for two meals, the most uncomfortable lower back pain has alleviated, and my sore throat is gone.
Can I stop taking the medications? Answer: Yes, you can stop.

Reply Date: 2019/11/19

More Info

When it comes to medication safety during early pregnancy, it is crucial to understand the potential risks and benefits associated with the use of various drugs. As you are currently seven weeks pregnant and experiencing symptoms such as fever, back pain, and sore throat, it is understandable to be concerned about the medications prescribed by your healthcare provider.
The medications you mentioned are as follows:
1. Kerfenmycin 250mg: This is an antibiotic that belongs to the lincosamide class. While there is limited data on its safety during pregnancy, it is generally classified as a Category B drug by the FDA, meaning that animal reproduction studies have not shown a risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, it is often used when the benefits outweigh the risks.

2. PARAN 500mg: This medication typically contains paracetamol (acetaminophen), which is widely considered safe for use during pregnancy for pain relief and fever reduction. It is classified as Category B by the FDA, indicating that it is generally safe when used as directed.

3. BUWECON 0.125mg: This medication is less commonly known, and its classification may vary depending on the specific active ingredients. If it contains a substance that is not well-studied in pregnant populations, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for more specific information regarding its safety.

4. IWELL TABLETS "EVE": This product appears to be a multivitamin or supplement. Generally, prenatal vitamins are recommended during pregnancy to ensure that both the mother and the developing fetus receive essential nutrients. However, the specific safety of this product would depend on its ingredients, so it is essential to check with your healthcare provider.

Given that your symptoms have improved after taking the medications, it may be reasonable to discuss with your doctor whether you can discontinue them. If your fever has resolved and your pain has subsided, your healthcare provider might agree that further medication is unnecessary. However, it is essential to follow their guidance, as they have the best understanding of your medical history and current condition.

In general, during early pregnancy, it is crucial to avoid unnecessary medications and to consult with healthcare providers before taking any new drugs. The first trimester is a critical period for fetal development, and certain medications can pose risks. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to ensure they are safe for you and your baby.

In summary, while the medications you have been prescribed appear to be relatively safe based on available classifications, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns or changes in your symptoms. They can provide personalized advice tailored to your specific situation, ensuring the best possible outcomes for both you and your developing fetus.

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