Pregnancy is a time of heightened caution, especially when it comes to medications. Some over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are usually OK to take, while others can cause harm to the mom and baby.
Nyquil, a popular nighttime cold and flu medication, is frequently questioned for its safety during pregnancy. The answer about Nyquil’s safety during pregnancy doesn’t boil down to a simple yes or no, so let’s dive into what experts and studies say, and some of the alternatives you may want to consider.
What Is Nyquil?
Nyquil is an OTC medication designed to relieve symptoms of colds and flu, such as cough, sore throat, headache, fever, and nasal congestion. It typically contains a combination of active ingredients, including:
- Acetaminophen: A pain reliever and fever reducer.
- Dextromethorphan: A cough suppressant.
- Doxylamine: An antihistamine that helps with runny nose and sneezing and promotes sleep.
- Phenylephrine: Some formulations contain this decongestant, which may pose risks by constricting blood vessels and potentially reducing blood flow to the placenta.
WARNING: It’s advisable to avoid medications containing phenylephrine, especially in the first trimester.
While these ingredients are generally safe for most adults, their effects on pregnant women and developing fetuses require careful consideration.
Is Nyquil Safe During Pregnancy?
The safety of Nyquil during pregnancy depends on its ingredients and the trimester in which it is used. Also, remember that studies have not produced 100% conclusive results, so I recommend caution.
My wife used Benadryl during pregnancy, but she stopped using it before the start of her third trimester to avoid known issues at that stage of pregnancy.
Here’s what the experts say about the main ingredients in Nyquil.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is considered safe during pregnancy when used as directed. It is commonly recommended for pain relief and fever reduction in expecting moms. However, recent studies suggest a potential link between prenatal acetaminophen use and an increased risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children.
Like every optional medication during pregnancy, acetaminophen should only be used when necessary and after consulting a healthcare provider.
Dextromethorphan
Dextromethorphan is likely safe in small doses during pregnancy, but limited research on its effects exists. It is generally considered low-risk, especially in the second and third trimesters.
Doxylamine
Doxylamine is commonly used to treat nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (it is also found in medications like Diclegis). However, its use in Nyquil is primarily for sedation, which may not be necessary for all pregnant women.
Despite these individual assessments, Nyquil as a combination product is not explicitly recommended for pregnant women.
The combination of ingredients could pose risks, especially in the first trimester, which is a critical period for fetal development, and unnecessary medications should be avoided unless necessary.
Risks of Taking Nyquil During Pregnancy
Taking Nyquil during pregnancy carries several risks, particularly in the first trimester. The first 12 weeks of pregnancy are crucial for fetal organ development, and taking medications like Nyquil during this time could potentially increase the risk of birth defects or complications, though conclusive evidence is lacking.
Additionally, the drowsiness caused by Nyquil may not be ideal for pregnant women, especially if they need to be alert or have other health conditions.
Some formulations of Nyquil also contain alcohol, which is not safe during pregnancy. Always check the label for alcohol content.
What Do Experts Recommend?
Most healthcare providers advise pregnant women to avoid Nyquil unless explicitly recommended by their doctor.
Instead, they suggest safer alternatives for managing cold and flu symptoms. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Safer Pharmological Alternatives To Nyquil During Pregnancy
Several OTC medications and non-pharmacological remedies are considered safer for pregnant women. I’ve included both pharmacological and non-pharmacological remedies that may act as good substitutes for Nyquil during pregnancy.
Before I list pharmacological options, I highly recommend talking to your doctor about getting a flu shot during pregnancy. Flu shots have not only proven to be safe for most pregnant moms, but they can also provide added protection for your child if they are born during flu season. All four of my children were born during cold and flu season, and my wife received her flu shot each time without any issues.
Robitussin DM
Robitussin DM is a common cough suppressant that contains dextromethorphan and guaifenesin. It is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but it’s always best to consult a doctor before use.
Chlorpheniramine
Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine that can help alleviate symptoms such as a runny nose and sneezing. It is considered safe for use during pregnancy, but like all medications, it should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
Guaifenesin
Guaifenesin, an expectorant found in medications like Mucinex, is generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, due to limited research on its safety during this critical period of fetal development, it’s advisable to avoid its use in the first trimester.
Safer Non-Pharmacological Alternatives To Nyquil During Pregnancy
Here are some helpful non-pharmological remedies that might work for specific cold and flu issues you are experiencing during pregnancy.
Hydration
Drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus and prevents dehydration. Staying hydrated is one of the simplest and most effective ways to manage cold and flu symptoms during pregnancy.
Rest
Adequate rest supports the immune system in fighting infections. Pregnant women should prioritize sleep and relaxation to help their bodies recover more quickly.
Warm Salt Water Gargles
Gargling with warm salt water can soothe a sore throat and reduce irritation. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle several times daily.
Humidifiers
A humidifier adds moisture to the air, relieving nasal congestion and making breathing easier. This can be particularly helpful during the night.
These remedies can relieve cold and flu symptoms without the potential risks associated with medications.
While Nyquil can be effective for cold and flu symptoms, its safety during pregnancy is uncertain. Expecting mothers should prioritize non-medication remedies and consult their healthcare provider before using any OTC medications. When it comes to pregnancy, it’s always better to err on the side of caution to ensure the health and safety of both mother and baby.
We wrote an article about taking Benadryl during pregnancy, which may interest you if Nyquil is off the table. Before making any decision, however, you should talk to your doctor.
The information provided is for educational purposes only. It should not be a replacement for medical care or advice. This info is not intended to diagnose or replace medical treatment. Consult your doctor if you have any questions about your pregnancy and medications you can safely consume. If they are experiencing an emergency, contact 911 or visit your local prompt care or emergency room.