Is it safe to take Imodium during the 8th week of pregnancy?
Hello.
I recently visited a doctor due to stomach pain.
He prescribed me Delibs (pinaverium bromide 50mg/tablet) and administered an injection with similar effects.
What effects might this have? Can I continue taking the medication? (I am currently over 8 weeks pregnant) Thank you.
chi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/09/02
Dr. Liao Lingmei reply Pharmacology
Dear Chi: Pinaverium bromide has been used for a long time in Europe and Japan, but it has not been approved in the United States.
Generally, it is recommended for use in irritable bowel syndrome.
Regarding its use during pregnancy, the information states: "Animal studies have not shown teratogenic effects.
Currently, there is insufficient clinical data to adequately assess whether the use of pinaverium bromide during pregnancy may cause malformations or fetal toxicity." Should you continue taking this medication? To answer this question, it is important to first understand whether you informed your physician about your pregnancy during your initial visit.
If you did inform them, the physician likely prescribed this medication after assessing your condition and determining it was appropriate for you.
However, if you did not disclose your pregnancy or were unaware of it at the time, I would not recommend continuing the medication, as "the use of bromide-containing agents may cause neonatal neurological symptoms (hypotension, sedation)." If your symptoms persist, please be sure to discuss medication use during pregnancy with your physician at your next appointment.
Best wishes.
PS: The quoted content is from the manufacturer's instructions.
Reply Date: 2006/09/02
More Info
When it comes to taking medications during pregnancy, especially in the early stages, it is crucial to consider both the safety of the drug and the potential effects on the developing fetus. Delibs, which contains pinaverium bromide, is an antispasmodic medication often used to relieve gastrointestinal discomfort, such as abdominal pain or cramps.
According to the FDA classification system for medications during pregnancy, pinaverium bromide is categorized as a Class B drug. This means that animal reproduction studies have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. However, this does not completely eliminate the need for caution. While the data suggests that it is generally safe to use during pregnancy, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider before continuing any medication.
In your case, since you are currently 8 weeks pregnant, it is essential to weigh the benefits of taking Delibs against any potential risks. If your doctor prescribed this medication for a specific reason, such as severe gastrointestinal discomfort that could impact your overall health or the health of your pregnancy, it may be justified to continue its use. However, if the symptoms are mild or manageable through dietary changes or other non-pharmacological methods, it might be advisable to consider those alternatives.
Additionally, the injection you received, which serves a similar purpose, should also be discussed with your healthcare provider. Understanding the specific type of injection and its safety profile during pregnancy is important. If it was a one-time treatment, the immediate risks may be minimal, but ongoing use should be evaluated carefully.
It is also important to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about any side effects you may experience while taking Delibs or after receiving the injection. If you notice any unusual symptoms or have concerns about your pregnancy, do not hesitate to reach out for guidance.
In summary, while Delibs (pinaverium bromide) is generally considered safe during pregnancy, especially in the early stages, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider regarding its use. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history, the severity of your symptoms, and the overall health of your pregnancy. Always prioritize a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle choices during pregnancy, as these can significantly contribute to your well-being and that of your developing baby.
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