Concerns About Medication Use During Early Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Q: Concerns About Medication Use During Early Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Hello： Generally speaking, before the ultrasound shows the fetus (approximately before 6 weeks of gestation), the impact of medications is relatively small, but I cannot guarantee that there will be no effects. <br>No one is perfect, and your fetus is also not perfect, but they a

Realizing a possible pregnancy after taking medication?

I apologize for asking a question here, as I am not in Taiwan, but I hope to receive a response from a Taiwanese doctor.
Thank you.
My last menstrual period started on February 25.
For the three months prior, my cycle has been irregular, approximately every 45 days.
From March 4 onward, I had intercourse with my husband about every 10 days without contraception.
On March 27, I experienced slight bleeding (single occurrence), but it was less than 2cc.
After that, my period still did not come, and I thought it might just be another irregular cycle, so I didn't pay much attention.
Between April 7 and April 11, I took medication for stomach pain.
On April 22, I took Orotomine (purchased in Taiwan) for an outbreak of urticaria, which contains: Orotic Acid 30mg, Glycyrrhizic Acid 50mg, and Chlorpheniramine Maleate 2.5mg, taking two tablets.
In the following days, I experienced lower abdominal pain similar to menstrual cramps and breast tenderness.
I initially thought my period was about to start, but since I had a similar experience in December of the previous year, when I went to the gynecologist due to menstrual cramps without a period and discovered I was pregnant, I became concerned.
Unfortunately, the embryo had issues, and I experienced a miscarriage at 11 weeks.
The pain I am experiencing now is not much different from that time, so early this morning, I used a pregnancy test.
After about 10 minutes, a control line appeared, and a very faint test line showed up.
Unsure of the accuracy, I tested again 17 hours later, and the faint test line appeared again.
I believe I might be pregnant, but I am worried about the potential effects of the medications I took on the fetus.
Could the urticaria medication negatively impact the fetus? Does taking medication in early pregnancy affect fetal brain development? Thank you for your response.

Jia Nai, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/28

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: Generally speaking, before the ultrasound shows the fetus (approximately before 6 weeks of gestation), the impact of medications is relatively small, but I cannot guarantee that there will be no effects.
No one is perfect, and your fetus is also not perfect, but they are all gifts from God, and we should accept and take responsibility for them.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hsinchu Hospital.

Reply Date: 2005/04/28

More Info

Concerns about medication use during early pregnancy are quite common, and it's essential to approach this topic with careful consideration. Early pregnancy is a critical period for fetal development, and many women worry about the potential effects of medications taken before or after they realize they are pregnant.
From your description, it appears that you have taken several medications, including Orotomine, which contains Orotic Acid, Glycyrrhizine, and Chlorpheniramine maleate. Let's break down the concerns regarding these medications and their potential impact on pregnancy.

1. Chlorpheniramine Maleate: This is an antihistamine commonly used to treat allergic reactions, such as urticaria (hives). It is classified as a Category B medication by the FDA, which means that animal studies have not shown any risk to the fetus, and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women. While it is generally considered safe, it is always best to use it under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

2. Glycyrrhizine: This compound is derived from licorice root and is sometimes used for its anti-inflammatory properties. However, excessive consumption of licorice during pregnancy has been associated with potential risks, including developmental issues in the fetus. Therefore, it is advisable to limit its use and consult with a healthcare provider regarding its safety during pregnancy.

3. Orotic Acid: This is less commonly discussed in the context of pregnancy. While it is involved in the synthesis of nucleic acids and may have some metabolic roles, there is limited research on its safety during pregnancy. Therefore, caution is warranted.

Regarding your concerns about the impact of medications on fetal brain development, it is important to note that the first trimester is a crucial time for the development of the fetal nervous system. However, the specific effects of the medications you mentioned on brain development are not well-documented. Most medications that are known to have teratogenic effects (causing malformations) are typically identified through extensive research and clinical studies.

If you suspect you are pregnant and have taken medications, the best course of action is to consult with a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history, the specific medications you have taken, and your current health status. They may also recommend an early ultrasound to assess the development of the fetus and ensure everything is progressing normally.

In summary, while there are potential risks associated with medication use during early pregnancy, many medications are considered safe when used appropriately. It is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any medications you have taken and any concerns you may have. They can help you navigate this complex situation and provide reassurance and guidance for a healthy pregnancy. Remember, early detection and proactive management are key to ensuring the best possible outcomes for both you and your baby.

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