How can over-the-counter (OTC) medicine affect a developing baby?

Several over-the-counter (OTC) medicines can affect your pregnancy, even some that don’t seem too serious- like antacids or painkillers. Your health care provider (including your pharmacist) can tell you whether a medicine is safe to take. They may also have suggestions for alternatives if the medicine isn’t safe to take.

Once you’re pregnant, check with your health care provider before taking any OTC medicine. Read the label to find out if the product is safe during pregnancy.

Some OTC products have alcohol in them. Alcohol has serious effects on a developing baby.

Some OTC medicine affects blood flow to the uterus, which means the developing baby may not get the oxygen and nutrients needed for normal development.

Learn more about the harmful use of prescription and OTC medicine.