Paracetamol in pregnancy: uses, tips and precautions

During pregnancy, we send through our body all the nutrients that the baby needs to develop and grow. But one of the things he also receives, because They cross the placenta, they are the medications we take.

Therefore, it is recommended to completely avoid taking drugs during pregnancy, however, there are some that are considered safe under certain conditions and that may be prescribed by your doctor at this stage.

One of them is the paracetamol, and we tell you about its use, tips and precautions during pregnancy.

What is paracetamol and what is it for?

Acetaminophen, also called acetaminophen or acetaminophen, is an analgesic and antipyretic that is used for the treatment of fever and pain. It is often sold alone or as a medicine combined with other active substances, and can be taken orally, rectally or intravenously.

In a mild analgesic and has a mild anti-inflammatory effect, so it is usually prescribed in cases of mild or moderate pain, so it is safe to continue using it in certain diseases or conditions, always following the recommended doses.

Use in pregnancy

Paracetamol It is one of the drugs that are considered safe to use during pregnancy, according to the classification of the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it is in Category B, according to the risks and benefits it represents in pregnancy:

This group or category includes those medications that have been frequently used in pregnancy, and that appear not to cause serious birth defects or other damage to the baby. But nevertheless, the ideal is to avoid it as much as possible.

Tips and precautions

Some studies have found that there is a relationship between the use of paracetamol in pregnancy and the probability of the baby suffering from asthma in childhood, or with fertility problems in male children, although this type of consequences would occur only when it is taken in excess or simultaneously with other medications. Similarly, taking too much paracetamol could cause damage to the liver, kidneys, and anemia in the mother.

That is why it is very important to consult your doctor before taking any medication and Follow the dose recommendations and frequency with which you can take it, if necessary.

The ideal is completely avoid its consumption in pregnancy, and better look for natural and safe ways to relieve fever and pain. To treat fever in pregnancy, for example, there are certain steps you can take:

  • Take off excess clothes.
  • Stay hydrated
  • Take a warm shower, with water to a degree lower than your body temperature.

Y in case of painIt will depend on the area where it manifests, although at this stage it is usually in the back, so doing mild exercise and controlled stretching can help, as well as rest and rest, which are also essential during this stage.

If the fever or pain does not give up or is strong, it is best to see your doctor immediately, to ensure that these are not the product of any complication of pregnancy and so they can recommend what to do.

And remember, before taking any medication, even though these are safe medications to use in pregnancy, such as paracetamol, you should consult with your doctor so that he gives you the necessary and appropriate instructions for you.

Video: Pregnancy and Medications. Video FAQs - UCLA Family Health Center (May 2024).