You. Your Pregnancy. Your Baby.
Contents
Community
Online Store

Pseudoephedrine during pregnancy

Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride is a sympathomimetic with brochodilator, vasoconstrictor (constriction of the blood vessels) and decongestant properties. It is most commonly used to treat symptoms of cold and flu, and is sometimes recommended for obstructive airways disease.

How pseudoephedrine works

Pseudoephedrine narrows and constricts the blood vesels reducing the amount of blood that passes to the swollen nasal passages and shrinks swollen mucus membranes in the nose. This serves to reduce the effects of runny nose and improves breathing in the nasal passages. Its action is very similar to that of a related drug; ephedrine hydrochloride.

Pseudoephedrine and pregnancy

It is recommended that pseudoephedrine only be used during pregnancy if stricly necessary. Although many large studies have determined that there is no increase in the number of birth defects or other congenital abnormalities through the use of pseudoephedrine you should limit your usage and consult your doctor before taking decongestants during pregnancy.

Pseudoephedrine passes into the breast milk and should not be used by mothers who are breastfeeding.

The use of extended/timed-release forms of pseudoephedrine is not recommended for infants and children under the age of twelve.

Known food interactions

There are no known food interactions.

Disease interactions

Consult your doctor before taking pseudoephedrine if you have a history of any of the following:

Drug interactions

Consult your doctor before taking pseudoephedrine if you are taking any of the following drugs, medications or supplements:

Reasons to consult your doctor

  • If you experience any of the following symptoms, discontinue the medication immediately and contact your doctor:
  • convulsions
  • hallucinations
  • irregular or slowed heartbeat
  • shortness of breath
  •  Email a Friend
  •  Printer Friendly
Drugs & Medications