Medication Safety During Early Pregnancy: What You Need to Know - Pharmacology

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Regarding medication use during early pregnancy?


Hello, I started my menstrual period on January 30 and I am unsure if I am pregnant.
I accidentally took cold medicine on March 7 that contained KEFEX, LYSOZYME, PSEUDOEPHEDRINE, and PANADOL.
Additionally, on February 10, I took cold medicine that contained BUSCOPAN, STROCAIN, VOREN, and BRUFEN.
In early March, I took the contraceptive pill TRINORDIOL TABLETS, specific batch number 03023-390.
I would like to confirm whether the above medications could affect the fetus.

Huihui, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/04/14

Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology


Hello Huihui: The medication you are taking, Brufen, is classified as Category B and is best avoided during the last three months of pregnancy.
Pseudophedrine is classified as Category C for pregnancy, while Trinordiol is classified as Category X.
The other medications you mentioned are categorized as Category B.
However, I recommend that you consult an obstetrician for further evaluation, if that’s alright.
The pregnancy medication categories are classified by the FDA as follows: A: No risk in controlled studies; B: No risk in animal studies, but no human studies; C: Harmful in animal studies and cannot rule out risk in humans; D: Risk evident; X: Contraindicated in pregnancy.

Reply Date: 2003/04/14

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. The first trimester, particularly the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, is a critical period for fetal development, and exposure to certain medications can have significant implications.

Based on the medications you mentioned, let's break them down:
1. Kefex (Cefalexin): This antibiotic is generally considered safe during pregnancy and falls under FDA category B, which means that animal reproduction studies have not shown a risk to the fetus, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.

2. Lysozyme: There is limited data regarding the safety of lysozyme during pregnancy. It is an enzyme that is naturally present in the body, and while it is generally considered safe, specific studies on its effects during pregnancy are lacking.

3. Pseudoephedrine: This decongestant is classified as category C by the FDA. This means that risk cannot be ruled out, and it should only be used if the potential benefits justify the potential risk to the fetus. It is often advised to avoid it, especially in the first trimester, unless absolutely necessary.

4. Panadol (Paracetamol/Acetaminophen): This pain reliever and fever reducer is considered safe during pregnancy and is classified as category B. It is one of the most commonly recommended medications for pregnant women.

5. Buscopan (Hyoscine Butylbromide): This medication is used to relieve cramps and spasms in the stomach and intestines. It is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider.

6. Strocain: This medication is not widely recognized, and its safety profile during pregnancy is unclear. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional regarding its use.

7. Voren (Flurbiprofen): This non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is classified as category C. It is typically advised to avoid NSAIDs during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, due to potential risks to the fetus.

8. Brufen (Ibuprofen): Similar to Voren, ibuprofen is also an NSAID and is classified as category C. It is generally recommended to avoid ibuprofen during the first trimester unless prescribed by a healthcare provider.

9. Trinordiol: This is a combined oral contraceptive pill. If taken during early pregnancy, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider. While there is no strong evidence that it causes harm, it is generally advised to discontinue hormonal contraceptives upon confirmation of pregnancy.

In summary, while some of the medications you mentioned are considered safe during pregnancy, others carry potential risks. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medications taken during early pregnancy, especially if you are concerned about their effects on fetal development. Your healthcare provider can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the specifics of your pregnancy.

Additionally, it is crucial to approach any medication use during pregnancy with caution. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications you have taken or are considering taking, and follow their guidance closely. If you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about your pregnancy, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health and the health of your baby are of utmost importance.

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