When you’re pregnant it can feel like a minefield trying to remember the lists of do’s and don’ts to follow so you keep your growing bump safe and healthy, but what do you do when you feel sick?
It’s so important for all moms-to-be to get enough rest when they’re pregnant, but what happens when you feel sick? Can you take your usual medication to keep the coughs and colds at bay?
In this article, we’ll break down and explain every aspect of whether or not using Robitussin while pregnant is safe because pregnancy is hard enough without being sick too!
In this article
What’s In Robitussin?
The main two ingredients you will find in Robitussin are Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin. It comes in several forms, pills, cough syrups, and cough drops.
Dextromethorphan helps to relieve coughing by decreasing the activity in your brain that triggers your impulse to cough but doesn’t actually treat the main cause, in this case being your cold or sore throat.
Guaifenesin is the part that treats the cold by loosening up any mucus so you can cough and help clear that nasty congestion.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Is Robitussin Safe To Take When Pregnant?
It’s not common for over-the-counter medications to be tested for safety to use during pregnancy, but don’t let this put you off. It is advised that if pregnant women wish to take Robitussin they study the side effects first to be cautious.
If you DO choose to take Robitussin when pregnant, it is advised you only take up to 120mg in every 24hr period.
Although both the main ingredients are considered safe in pregnancy, it is important to always check the ingredients list as Robitussin cough syrup can contain alcohol as another active ingredient.
It is well-known advice that pregnant mothers should completely avoid alcohol as this can cause issues with their baby’s health.
Robitussin Side Effects
As we just mentioned, it is known for Robitussin ingredients to cause some strong side effects which could be very problematic for pregnant mothers wishing to take this medication. Some of these side effects can be:
- Nervousness
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Dizziness
Now many of these symptoms can already affect women during pregnancy, but it is important to note any change or severity in these when taking this medication and speaking to your doctor for advice if you feel unsure.
You should also check with your doctor if you are currently taking any medications in case these could cause problems when mixed with Robitussin. These include medications to treat issues such as Parkinson’s, depression, or emotional conditions.
When you’re pregnant your body will be busy putting all its energy into nurturing your little one, so your immune system won’t be as strong as it once was.
It’s important you look after yourself if you’re coming down with a cold, so here are some alternative methods to help alleviate symptoms associated with colds and get you feeling better.
Make sure you rest
Your body is busy enough growing your little bundle of joy, so make sure you don’t work too much as you could do more harm than good. Put your feet up, binge a new series on Netflix and get comfortable.
View in gallery
Stay hydrated & eat well
What better thing to do when curled up on the sofa, than eat! Having a healthy balanced diet is essential in pregnancy, and now you’re sick your body will be craving those nutrients more than before.
Foods high in vitamin C such as oranges, broccoli, and peppers as well as leafy greens will provide your immune system a good boost to help you feel better in no time.
Hot drinks
If you find not being able to take your usual medications for a sore throat and cough is becoming a bit of a pain, then try honey and lemon in hot water.
Honey soothes and provides antibacterial properties whilst the lemon cuts through congestion so you can breathe easily. For a two-in-one add some ginger too, this is proven to help with morning sickness in pregnancy so could be a real help.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Should I Contact My Doctor?
Usually, a cold should ease off within 3-5 days leaving you feeling much brighter and more yourself. However, if you find you’re still struggling with flu-like symptoms it may be worth asking your doctor for some advice.
If you find you have any bleeding, dizziness, extreme vomiting, or a decrease in fetal movements it is important to contact your medical professional immediately for help and advice.
You should always feel your baby moving regularly throughout your pregnancy, this can often be an early warning sign for any arising issues.
FAQs
How much Robitussin can I take when pregnant?
It is advised pregnant women follow the advice of taking NO MORE than 120mg of Robitussin a day when pregnant.
Is there a difference between Robitussin and Robitussin DM?
Both are over-the-counter medications for congestion, however, the Robitussin DM contains both active ingredients previously mentioned and therefore may be more helpful to clear your illness. The DM stands for dextromethorphan and guaifenesin.
Can I take Robitussin when breastfeeding?
Robitussin is also considered safe to take when breastfeeding. Small occasional doses of antihistamines are considered acceptable whilst nursing.
However, it is important to note many nursing mothers choose not to take excessive amounts of Robitussin cough drops as these contain menthol, which is known to reduce your milk supply.
The Final Thought
While you may just want to feel better as soon as possible, while you are pregnant you may have to take things a little slower and be patient with your ever-changing body. After all, it is very busy creating a brand new life.
You now have to consider all the ingredients in the medication you would have previously taken without thinking about. But having this information will help you to keep your baby and you safe and healthy.
While taking the correct medication will also help you recover from your cold and be back on your feet in no time.
