Is Theraflu safe during pregnancy. What are the risks of taking cold and flu medications while pregnant. How does the flu affect a developing fetus. What are safe alternatives for treating cold and flu symptoms during pregnancy. When can new mothers safely take Theraflu after giving birth.

Understanding Theraflu and Its Components

Theraflu is a popular over-the-counter medication used to combat cold and flu symptoms. It comes in various forms, including liquids, caplets, and powders. As a combination medication, Theraflu contains several active ingredients, each targeting different symptoms:

• Acetaminophen: for pain relief and fever reduction
• Dextromethorphan: a cough suppressant
• Guaifenesin: an expectorant to loosen mucus
• Phenylephrine: a nasal decongestant

While Theraflu can be effective in providing relief from common cold and flu symptoms, its use during pregnancy raises concerns due to the potential risks associated with its ingredients.

The Impact of Cold and Flu on Pregnant Women

Pregnancy can make women more susceptible to illnesses like the cold and flu. This increased vulnerability is due to changes in the immune system during pregnancy, which can suppress its normal function. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing severe complications from the flu, including pneumonia and hospitalization.

Why are pregnant women more vulnerable to flu complications?

Pregnant women are more vulnerable to flu complications due to several factors:

1. Changes in the immune system
2. Increased strain on the respiratory system
3. Changes in heart rate and blood volume
4. Reduced lung capacity as the pregnancy progresses

These physiological changes can make it harder for the body to fight off infections and increase the risk of severe symptoms if a pregnant woman contracts the flu.

Potential Risks of Flu to the Developing Fetus

When a pregnant woman contracts the flu, it’s not just her health at risk. The developing fetus can also be affected in several ways:

• Increased risk of neural tube defects
• Higher chance of premature birth
• Potential for low birth weight
• Risk of fetal distress due to maternal fever

These risks underscore the importance of proper flu prevention and treatment during pregnancy. But what about using medications like Theraflu?

Safety Concerns: Theraflu During Pregnancy

While Theraflu may be effective for non-pregnant individuals, its use during pregnancy is generally not recommended. The combination of ingredients in Theraflu poses potential risks to the developing fetus. Here’s a breakdown of the concerns:

Acetaminophen

Although acetaminophen is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used as directed, recent studies have suggested potential links between its use and developmental issues in children. It’s important to use acetaminophen only when necessary and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Dextromethorphan

While limited studies show no increased risk of birth defects with dextromethorphan use, its safety during pregnancy is not fully established. Healthcare providers often recommend avoiding it unless absolutely necessary.

Phenylephrine

This decongestant can potentially reduce blood flow to the placenta, which may affect fetal growth. It’s generally advised to avoid phenylephrine during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.

Given these concerns, healthcare providers typically recommend avoiding combination medications like Theraflu during pregnancy and opting for safer alternatives.

Safe Treatment Options for Cold and Flu During Pregnancy

While Theraflu may be off the table, pregnant women still have options for managing cold and flu symptoms. Here are some safe alternatives:

• Rest and hydration: Getting plenty of sleep and drinking lots of fluids can help your body fight off the infection.
• Saline nasal sprays: These can help relieve congestion without the use of medications.
• Humidifiers: Adding moisture to the air can ease breathing and reduce congestion.
• Acetaminophen: When used as directed and under medical supervision, it can help manage fever and pain.
• Antiviral medications: If prescribed by a healthcare provider, these can be effective in treating the flu during pregnancy.

When should a pregnant woman seek medical attention for cold or flu symptoms?

A pregnant woman should contact her healthcare provider immediately if she experiences:

• Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent chest pain or pressure
• Persistent dizziness or confusion
• Severe vomiting
• Decreased fetal movement

Early intervention is crucial in managing flu symptoms during pregnancy and preventing complications.

Preventing the Flu During Pregnancy

Prevention is always better than cure, especially during pregnancy. Here are some effective strategies for avoiding the flu:

1. Get vaccinated: The flu shot is safe and recommended for pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy.
2. Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
3. Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get adequate sleep to boost your immune system.
5. Consider vitamin supplements: Prenatal vitamins and additional vitamin C (under medical supervision) may help support your immune system.

Is the flu vaccine safe during pregnancy?

Yes, the flu vaccine is not only safe but highly recommended during pregnancy. It can protect both the mother and the developing baby from severe flu complications. The vaccine is safe to receive at any stage of pregnancy and can even provide some protection to the baby after birth.

Postpartum Use of Theraflu: When Is It Safe?

After giving birth, many new mothers wonder when they can safely use medications like Theraflu again. While the risks associated with pregnancy are no longer a concern, there are still considerations for breastfeeding mothers:

• Wait at least two weeks postpartum before considering Theraflu use.
• If breastfeeding, consult with a healthcare provider before taking Theraflu.
• Some doctors recommend waiting 2-3 hours after breastfeeding before taking a dose.
• Others suggest taking Theraflu at night when the baby is less likely to feed.

It’s important to note that some components of Theraflu can pass into breast milk, potentially affecting the baby. Acetaminophen is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, but other ingredients like dextromethorphan and phenylephrine require more caution.

What are the potential risks of taking Theraflu while breastfeeding?

Taking Theraflu while breastfeeding can pose several risks to the infant:

• Drowsiness in the baby due to certain ingredients
• Reduced milk supply from decongestants like phenylephrine
• Potential overdose of acetaminophen if the mother is taking other medications containing this ingredient
• Irritability or sleep disturbances in the infant

Given these potential risks, many healthcare providers recommend avoiding Theraflu altogether while breastfeeding or using it only under close medical supervision.

Natural Remedies for Cold and Flu Symptoms During Pregnancy

For expectant mothers looking for alternative ways to manage cold and flu symptoms, several natural remedies can provide relief without the risks associated with medications:

1. Honey and lemon tea: Soothes sore throats and may help with coughs
2. Ginger: Can help with nausea and has anti-inflammatory properties
3. Steam inhalation: Helps clear nasal passages and ease congestion
4. Saltwater gargle: Relieves sore throat symptoms
5. Elevated sleeping position: Can help reduce congestion and improve sleep quality

Are herbal remedies safe during pregnancy?

While many herbal remedies are touted as natural alternatives, not all are safe during pregnancy. Some herbs can stimulate contractions or interact with other medications. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies during pregnancy. Some generally considered safe options include:

• Echinacea: May help boost the immune system
• Peppermint: Can help with nausea and congestion
• Chamomile: May aid in relaxation and sleep (in moderation)

Remember, even natural remedies should be used with caution during pregnancy. What works for one person may not be suitable for another, especially when expecting.

Understanding the Importance of Prenatal Care During Illness

When dealing with cold and flu symptoms during pregnancy, maintaining regular prenatal care becomes even more crucial. Your healthcare provider can monitor both your health and the baby’s development, ensuring that any treatments or remedies you’re using are safe and effective.

How can prenatal care help manage cold and flu symptoms?

Regular prenatal care during illness can provide several benefits:

• Monitoring of vital signs and fetal health
• Adjustment of treatment plans as needed
• Early detection of potential complications
• Guidance on safe medication use and alternative remedies
• Emotional support and reassurance during a challenging time

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you’re experiencing cold or flu symptoms during pregnancy. They can provide personalized advice and ensure you’re taking the safest approach to managing your symptoms.

The Role of Nutrition in Fighting Cold and Flu During Pregnancy

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in supporting the immune system, which is especially important when combating cold and flu symptoms during pregnancy. A well-balanced diet can help your body fight off infections more effectively and may even reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get sick.

What foods can boost immunity during pregnancy?

Include these immune-boosting foods in your pregnancy diet:

• Citrus fruits: Rich in vitamin C
• Leafy greens: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants
• Yogurt: Contains beneficial probiotics
• Garlic: Known for its antimicrobial properties
• Berries: High in antioxidants
• Lean meats: Good source of zinc and protein
• Nuts and seeds: Provide vitamin E and healthy fats

Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, herbal teas, and clear broths. These can help thin mucus secretions and support overall health during pregnancy.

Long-term Effects of Flu During Pregnancy

While most pregnant women who contract the flu recover without complications, it’s important to be aware of potential long-term effects on both mother and baby. Understanding these risks emphasizes the importance of prevention and proper treatment.

What are the potential long-term effects of flu during pregnancy?

Research has suggested several potential long-term effects:

• Increased risk of childhood asthma in the baby
• Possible links to neurodevelopmental disorders
• Higher likelihood of cardiovascular issues later in life for the child
• Potential impact on the mother’s respiratory health post-pregnancy

These findings underscore the importance of flu prevention and prompt treatment during pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider for the most up-to-date information and personalized advice.

The Importance of Partner and Family Support

Managing cold and flu symptoms during pregnancy can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. The support of partners, family members, and friends can make a significant difference in an expectant mother’s recovery and overall well-being.

How can partners and family members support a pregnant woman with flu?

Here are some ways to provide support:

• Help with household chores and meal preparation
• Encourage rest and relaxation
• Assist in monitoring symptoms and medication schedules
• Provide emotional support and reassurance
• Help maintain a clean and hygienic environment to prevent the spread of illness
• Attend medical appointments for support and to stay informed

Remember, taking care of a pregnant woman’s health is a team effort. Open communication and understanding can go a long way in ensuring a healthy pregnancy, even when faced with challenges like cold and flu.

Can You Take Theraflu While Pregnant? Here’s What You Should Know

Staying healthy is one of the top priorities of an expectant mother. Expectant mothers often have to make many decisions in a short time as they prepare for their new baby. One of these decisions includes what they can and should put into their bodies if they get sick.  Many products claim to support the health of expectant mothers, but few can provide visible benefits to new moms. Knowing what is safe for both mother and baby can make the difference between a healthy pregnancy or experiencing unforeseen complications.

Are you wondering if you can take Theraflu during your pregnancy? Products like Theraflu are combination medications, and it is best if expectant mothers steer clear of them.

Here are some reasons why medications such as Theraflu must be avoided, how they can affect the fetus, and safer alternatives you can use to keep you healthy.

Table of Contents

• How Theraflu Works
• How Cold and Flu Affect Pregnant Women
• How The Flu Affects a Fetus
• Treating the Flu During Pregnancy
• When is Theraflu Safe to Take?
• Alternative Flu Treatment Methods
• Preventing the Flu

How Theraflu Works

Theraflu is a medication many rely on to fight the common cold and flu symptoms. It comes in forms such as liquid, caplets, and powders. Theraflu is a histamine blocker, a chemical your body produces in response to allergens. You can experience relief from symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and more. 

While some people think that Theraflu can reduce the amount of time they’re sick, its primary purpose is to help bring relief from the symptoms that make you miserable.

Theraflu can also help you experience some relief because of its ingredients. It is a 3-in-1 combination medication with pain relievers, fever reducers, and nasal decongestants to combat various symptoms. The active medicines in Theraflu include, 

• Acetaminophen
• Dextromethorphan
• Guaifenesin
• Phenylephrine
• And others

Each medication is responsible for fighting various symptoms, and the combination makes Theraflu a staple in many homes.

How Cold and Flu Affect Pregnant Women

Getting the flu can be a miserable experience. The fever, body aches, chills, congestion, and other symptoms can be enough to make even the toughest person stay in bed for several days. Also, the flu can be dangerous, especially for pregnant women. For some people, the flu increases the risk of developing life-threatening complications such as pneumonia. 

Pregnant women are at higher risk of experiencing severe difficulties from the flu than others. According to the CDC, pregnancy can cause your immune system to change and suppress it, making you more susceptible to contracting the flu. If you’re pregnant and then contract the flu, it could lead to hospitalization.

How The Flu Affects a Fetus

Getting the flu during pregnancy can have adverse effects on the fetus. For instance, if the mother contracts the flu and passes it to the fetus, there is a chance of it developing a fever. If this happens, it can cause neural tube defects in the fetus or premature birth.

Treating the Flu During Pregnancy

Although getting the flu during pregnancy can be dangerous, there are safe ways to treat the illness. The first step in treatment is to reach out to your healthcare provider immediately. Your doctor can provide a strategy to help treat your symptoms. A crucial tool your doctor might use is antiviral medications.

 Antiviral medications work best as a quick intervention, so the sooner you report your symptoms to your doctor, the better the chance antiviral medications have of working.

When is Theraflu Safe to Take?

Theraflu can be a helpful tool for those who’ve gotten the flu. But, pregnant women must give it time before attempting to retake the medication. Many doctors recommend waiting at least two weeks postpartum before trying to take Theraflu, but most healthcare experts strongly advise against taking the drug while nursing. 

Nursing mothers must exercise caution when considering taking Theraflu. For example, some experts recommend waiting until two hours after breastfeeding before taking a dose of Theraflu, as it can find its way into the milk supply. Other doctors recommend waiting until nighttime to take a dose when your newborn may be more likely to skip a feeding.  

Although most babies can tolerate acetaminophen, it can adversely affect the health of your newborn and cause unwanted side effects if your baby receives too much of it. Since measuring the amount of acetaminophen your baby receives from breast milk is difficult, many doctors recommend avoiding the product altogether as a safety measure.

Also, the other ingredients in Theraflu, such as Dextromethorphan and Phenylephrine, may cause your baby to become drowsy and irritable after nursing. Some mothers also report fluctuations in their milk supply after taking Theraflu. 

Although not many studies link the correlation between Theraflu and breast milk supply, it is best to exercise caution and consult your physician for advice on the matter.

Alternative Flu Treatment Methods

While Theraflu can help give you some relief from your flu symptoms, avoiding the medication during your pregnancy may be the safest course of action. Not being able to use a helpful medication can be frustrating, but you still have plenty of options to manage the flu. The first step in addressing the flu during pregnancy is to consult your doctor if you experience symptoms. Your doctor can help you find safe treatment options for both you and your baby as you recover. 

If your doctor recommends that you completely stay away from medications during your pregnancy, plenty of natural remedies may bring some relief. Some strategies you can try include

• Taking a steaming shower to relieve congestion
• Staying hydrated
• Drinking decaffeinated teas (With Ginger, Honey, and Lemon)
• Getting rest whenever possible

Preventing the Flu

Getting the flu can be debilitating, especially during pregnancy. Avoiding the flu and taking measures to protect yourself is crucial. Most experts advise expectant mothers to get their flu shot as a preventative measure. 

Although the flu shot is safe for pregnant women, some remain hesitant and would rather take other protective measures. If you don’t want to take the flu shot but want to avoid the flu, you can protect yourself by

• Washing your hands frequently
• Avoiding large crowds during flu season
• Limiting physical contact
• Not Sharing utensils
• Avoiding touching your hands, eyes, and mouth

Expecting a baby can be exciting and nerve-wracking as you do your best to stay healthy.   Theraflu can be helpful for those who contract the flu, but it may do you and your baby more harm than good. Protecting yourself from the flu as best you can and following your doctor’s advice if you get it is your best bet to keeping you and your baby in good health.

Flu While Pregnant: All You Should Know About Flu in Pregnancy

Skip to content

• View Larger Image

Whether this is your first pregnancy or not, getting the flu while pregnant is never easy. However, when it comes to flu during pregnancy, it is common to run with a higher health risk for both the mom and the baby. 

If you suspect you have the flu, reach out to your doctor. They can provide you with treatment, usually by prescribing antiviral medications which are safe to take during pregnancy and help with the symptoms. It is essential to get vaccinated yearly to lower the risk of getting the flu while pregnant. 

The vaccine is usually covered by insurance companies and comes out annually around the end of September. It is recommended to get the flu shot while pregnant and as soon as possible, especially if the person is in their 3rd trimester. 

Another prevention method is staying away from people who might be sick, washing your hands whenever you are outside, and not touching your face. 

Obstetrics in Jacksonville is here to help you with this critical topic, so if you want to know more about it, please keep reading this article. 

Is Getting the Flu While Pregnant Dangerous?

While pregnant, women’s bodies go through tremendous changes – from organs moving and the uterus expanding to accommodate the baby to the immune system lowering so your body doesn’t reject the fetus. That being said, during pregnancy, you are more susceptible to illnesses. 

The lungs and the heart work harder to provide enough oxygen and blood for both of you. This puts additional stress on your body, making it easier for the flu to creep up on you when you least expect it. 

The potential for severe complications is increased when a woman is pregnant, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions. In extreme cases, it could lead to hospitalization. The biggest concern that comes from flu is pneumonia. If caught early, pneumonia can be treated without more significant risks. Still, if not, it can lead to premature birth and even cause the baby to underdevelop. A higher risk of flu-related complications if you have the flu during pregnancy can also be experienced in the postpartum period.  

Luckily, complications that can arise when having flu while pregnant are rare, and usually, nothing happens. It is just better to be prepared for potential issues. 

What Do Flu Symptoms During Pregnancy Look Like?

The symptoms can come on either slowly or suddenly. Still, the common denominator is usually a fever, fatigue, aches, and possibly a headache. Sore throat, coughing, runny or stuffy nose, and chills are also probable. 

You can even experience diarrhea and vomiting, which can be very dangerous. We recommend you consult with your doctor if any of these symptoms arise. 

However, suppose you notice any of the following flu symptoms during pregnancy. In that case, you need to go to the emergency room immediately. 

• Shortness of breath or any problems with breathing
• Continuous pain or pressure in your abdominal area or chest
• A cough or a fever that improves but then returns or worsens
• Persistent dizziness, haze, tiredness, or lethargy
• Severe or continuous vomiting
• Lesser fetal movement
• A high fever that doesn’t react to medicine
• Severe weakness or instability
• Seizures
• An inability to urinate
• Extreme muscle ache

These are just some of the symptoms you can experience. 

How Is the Flu Treated in Pregnancy?

Treating flu during pregnancy should be done as soon as possible due to the higher risk it imposes on both mom and the baby if any complications arise.  

Your doctor should advise you whether you need to get tested or receive treatment. They will probably prescribe antiviral medication over the phone or ask you to come in for a further check-up. 

Nothing invasive is usually done if you need to go and get tested. The doctors usually take your blood, listen to your lungs and take a nasal swab. This being said, getting tested within two days of experiencing the symptoms is recommended. 

You can try and ease the symptoms by following these steps:

• Drink lots of fluids.
• If you lack an appetite, try eating smaller meals to retain your nutritional intake.
• Rest
• If you experience a high fever, ask your doctor what paracetamol option would be less invasive since you are pregnant
• Have someone check up on you if you are alone at home

People with the flu are contagious a day before any symptoms show and stay contagious for about a week. So, to avoid spreading the flu, keep your distance from others, or wear a mask if you are in direct contact with people.  

Is It Safe To Take Theraflu While Pregnant?

TheraFlu is an over-the-counter medication that can be purchased without a prescription and is used by many. It contains paracetamol (for pain relief), phenylephrine (to ease stuffiness in your nose and throat), and vitamin C (to boost your immune system). 

Since there are different varieties of TheraFlu, it is highly suggested to consult with your doctor. Usually, doctors avoid recommending it to pregnant women with high blood pressure because it can damage their liver. 

Since it is not a prescription-based medicine, it isn’t as effective or strong as some antiviral medicine you can receive. While it can ease the symptoms, taking TheraFlu while pregnant won’t stop the flu. Asking your doctor to recommend medication that can treat the illness is always the best course of action. 

Is It Safe To Get the Flu Shot While Pregnant?

In short, yes. It is not only safe but also recommended because research has proven the vaccine safe and effective. It doesn’t impact the pregnancy at any stage and will not infect you or your baby with the flu, as some may think, because it is made from an inactive virus. 

Please note that the flu shot should be administered yearly whether you are pregnant or not. It lowers the chances of having severe flu symptoms and protects your baby simultaneously. As with any virus, it develops new strains, and it is better to be safe and protect yourself on time than not at all. 

As mentioned before, the flu shot becomes available each year around the end of September, so make sure to get it as soon as it is obtainable. Remember that it does take a few weeks to develop immunity after vaccination. However, this just means that if you take it as soon as it comes out, you will be protected during the flu season. 

If your doctor recommends you don’t take the flu shot due to any illness you may have, you can always ask for advice on how to keep the flu at bay by other means of treatment. 

Final Thoughts

Pregnancies can be hard to endure. While some women don’t experience any complications or hardships, many more do. Symptoms such as nausea, all-over body pains, especially in the lower back, and high-risk pregnancies where you have to spend your time resting and lying down are more common than not. Adding the flu to the list is unnecessary and can be avoided if you follow the guide we have provided you with. We hope you are staying safe, and this article will help you if you are trying to avoid the flu or suspect that you have it. And if you have any more questions, we at Trogolo Obstetrics and Gynecology in Jacksonville can help you with that. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any more doubts about this topic. 

Page load link

Go to Top

Theraflu during pregnancy: application features

Pregnancy is one of the most important periods in the life of any woman, when all efforts and thoughts are directed to caring for the unborn baby. At this time, the expectant mother needs to pay great attention to her health and the prevention of various diseases, including infectious ones. Pregnant women, like everyone else, are susceptible to colds and the flu.

High fever is one of the main symptoms of a viral infection ¹ . Fever poses a danger to the unborn baby, as it can lead to disruption of the natural development of the fetus and lead to poor prognosis ¹ . The risk of temperature-related adverse effects can be reduced by taking antipyretics ¹ .

The choice of a drug during this period is not an easy task, since many drugs are prohibited during pregnancy , as they can pass through the placental barrier and affect the fetus ² .

Therefore, expectant mothers should be careful with any medications during the entire period of pregnancy and not self-medicate. .

Can Theraflu be taken during pregnancy?

Can Theraflu be used in the first trimester pregnancy, use drug in the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy? Or Theraflu for pregnant women with a cold can only be recommended by a doctor?

The answers to these questions are contained in the instructions for medical use of the medicinal product. So, according to instructions for use, pregnant women are not recommended to take Theraflu ^3-9 .

Hot drink powder and oral tablets contain paracetamol, the only antipyretic approved for use throughout pregnancy when indicated ¹ . However, Theraflu contains not only paracetamol, but also other components to alleviate allergic symptoms, reduce swelling of the mucosa, runny nose and other manifestations of the common cold. To date, data on the use of the drug Theraflu in pregnant women is not enough, it is not recommended for use during pregnancy.

Therefore, Theraflu tablets (Teraflu Extra Tab) and hot drink powders (Theraflu Lemon, Theraflu Extra Lemon, Theraflu Wildberries and Theraflu Max Lemon) are contraindicated during pregnancy ^3-9 .

Theraflu for sore throat

A separate group are topical agents for sore throat: Theraflu LAR spray and Theraflu LAR Menthol oral lozenges. They contain lidocaine, which reduces sore throat when swallowing, and an antiseptic component that “fights” various infectious agents: bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Despite the local use of these forms, they are not recommended for pregnant women due to insufficient experience in this category of patients ^8-9 .

Thus, when the first symptoms of a cold and flu appear, including fever, expectant mothers should stay in bed, drink a lot and often, use physical methods to lower the temperature and call a doctor who will select a safe therapy for the expectant mother and baby ¹⁰ .

The information on the site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. This information should not be used for self-diagnosis and treatment of possible diseases and is not a substitute for the advice of a healthcare professional.

Use and safety of Theraflu during pregnancy and breastfeeding during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Theraflu during pregnancy: benefits and harms not fully understood during childbearing.

Theraflu contains paracetamol, phenylephrine and pheniramine, the action of which can adversely affect the health of a pregnant woman and an unborn child.

The action of paracetamol is due to the suppression of the action of prostaglandins, which play an important role in many processes of the human body, from which we can conclude that the use of this substance is contraindicated.

Epidemiological data, including a population development case-control study conducted by the National Birth Defect Prevention Study, showed no increased risk of major birth defects in children with prenatal exposure in the first trimester.

According to published animal studies, paracetamol may cause a decrease in fertility in both males and females, namely a decrease in testicular weight and a decrease in spermatogenesis.

In pregnant rats given oral paracetamol at doses up to 0.85 of the maximum human daily dose during organogenesis, embryotoxicity and a dose-dependent increase in bone variation (decrease in bone development and vestigial rib changes) were observed. Areas of necrosis in both the liver and kidneys of pregnant rats and fetuses have been observed when pregnant rats were given the oral drug throughout pregnancy at doses 1. 2 times the maximum human daily dose.

Animal studies have not been conducted using the intravenous formulation.

The Department of Psychopharmacology of the Indian National Institute of Mental Health and Neurology concluded that the use of paracetamol during pregnancy is associated with trends in the incidence of autism.

The same institute conducted an observational cohort study which showed that gestational exposure to paracetamol (especially when the duration of exposure was 28 days or more) was associated with motor, communication, and hyperactivity at age 3 years. Behavior in the area of ​​social and emotional development has largely not changed.

A recent large cohort study with a follow-up of about 13 years showed that exposure to paracetamol was associated with an increased risk of autism, but only in the presence of hyperkinetic disorder (hyperactivity, attention deficit disorder, impulsivity).

Belgian researchers have come to a similar conclusion, linking the cause of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to exposure to paracetamol in the womb.

Also, doctors from Belgium, France and the Netherlands provided new data on the association of closure of the prenatal ductus arteriosus with paracetamol use during pregnancy, but only at the level of causation.

Because obstruction of the ductus arteriosus may result in fetal loss or neonatal heart failure, the use of paracetamol, especially after the sixth month of pregnancy, should be limited as much as possible.

There are no data on the use of phenylephrine in pregnant women to know about the risks associated with this drug. Animal studies have also not been conducted. The use of phenylephrine in the first trimester is not associated with an increase in fetal malformations, but safety during pregnancy has not been established.

US experts have demonstrated a possible association between pheniramine use during the first trimester of pregnancy and eye and ear defects. However, independent confirmation is required; data on use at any time during pregnancy do not suggest an association with congenital anomalies.

Theraflu while breastfeeding

Theraflu is not recommended for breastfeeding because the active ingredients in this medicine can potentially harm a newborn baby if it passes into the milk.

Paracetamol is known to pass into breast milk, but in small amounts. One case of maculopapular rash has been reported in a 2-month-old infant following maternal paracetamol use.

The effect of pheniramine on lactation is not known. The molecular weight of pheniramine is low enough to be excreted in breast milk.

According to experts, the oral bioavailability of phenylephrine (about 40%) makes it unlikely to pass into breast milk in large quantities. Animal data indicate that phenylephrine may reduce milk production.

Talk to your doctor about changing Theraflu to another drug with a similar therapeutic effect, but not having similar toxic effects on the child, or stop breastfeeding while taking the drug.

Sources

Use of acetaminophen (paracetamol) during pregnancy and autism disorder in children.