Always check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking medication in pregnancy. This includes over-the-counter, herbal and alternative preparations.

Medications

• Paracetamol (Panadol) and Panadeine are not known to be harmful in pregnancy.
• Aspirin, Nurofen, Voltaren and Ibuprufen should not be taken unless prescribed by your obstetrician.
• Many antibiotics have no known harmful effects in pregnancy – these include antibiotics such as Amoxyl, Flucloxacillin, Keflex, and Augmentin.
• Claratyne is used for hayfever and is not known to have harmful effects in pregnancy but can decrease milk supply in breastfeeding women.

To check if a medication is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, call the Royal Women’s Hospital Drug Information Centre on 03 8345 3190.

Herbal Preparations

Most herbal preparations have not been tested to determine their safety in pregnant and breastfeeding women. It is advisable that all patients contemplating the use of any herbal remedy during pregnancy or breastfeeding seek advice from their naturopath or by calling the Royal Women’s Hospital Drug Information Centre on 03 8345 3190.

The information contained is not meant to replace medical advice. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding your health, please contact your health care professional.