By Dr Richard Robbins
Do not take Aspirin or Advil(ibuprofen) or Aleve (Naproxen sodium) during pregnancy unless specifically told to do so by one of our providers.Please be careful, because Aspirin, Advil, or Aleve MIGHT be one of the many ingredients in over-the-counter cold medicines. You have to look at the ingredients and if you are lucky, you’ll know what the heck all those strange words mean. I apologize that companies are not asked to list the category of each of their ingredients. So, you might need Google, or even ask your Pharmacist. Or, it might be obvious (such as Tylenol Cold and Sinus or Advil Cold and Sinus).In case you’ve forgotten, what IS safe???1. Tylenol (acetominophen) is safe when taken per instructions on the bottle. Don’t exceed 3000-4000mg maximum in 24 hours. And of course, don’t take Tylenol if you are allergic to it2. Antihistamines and decongestants are generally safe. The most famous brand names of antihistamines are Claritin, Zyrtec, and Allegra but older ones include Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and chloropheniramine.3. Anti-cough chemicals such as dextromethorphan (commonly known as DM)4. Guafenesin is a safe chemical meant to break up mucous and is the main ingredient of Robitussin and other cough meds.So that’s it, don’t be afraid to take remedies for cold symptoms, but BE VERY CAREFUL to avoid Aspirin and NSAIDs. This means Tylenol is king! And don’t forget to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids for a cold!
