Took the Wrong Medicine While pregnant---HELP

Hi, I'm a med student. So I know a little bit, enough to look it up :). First, take a deep breath, because you are past the embryonic stage where most damage from chemicals would occur. The PE in sudafed PE stands for Phenylephrine, which constricts your blood vessels. It can increase your blood pressure and theoretically can decrease blood flow to your baby (temporarily, while it is having its effects), which is why it's Pregnancy Category C, "Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the foetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks." And animal studies usually give a way bigger dose than humans would take. So taking it twice, I wouldn't worry about it, but I wouldn't take it again (you sound like you wouldn't anyway). The real dangers are pregnancy category X like accutane. Hope that helps, and good luck with your pregnancy! I'm 24 weeks.

M. T

Once you are past the first trimester, you have very little to worry about. If the medicine was going to produce a adverse reaction to your baby, the greatest risk is early in the pregnancy. Sudafed PE is not recommended during pregnancy, simply because there haven't been any studies to prove its safety. http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/health_advice/facts/medicinesi... states "Nasal decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, xylometazoline, oxymetazoline should also be avoided as there is insufficient evidence of their safety. "

I wouldn't think that you have anything to worry about. Most medications are labeled to avoid during pregnancy - even ones that are generally considered safe, simply to reduce the manufacturer's liability. If you are still concerned, call your OB tomorrow. They usually would rather that you call with questions, than have you worry.

I will pray for your baby and your anxiety - God is big enough to protect you both.

Congrats on your baby and blessings to you both.

D.

Hey~ Dont feel bad. Atleast you now know! The good thing is you only took it twice and not your whole pregnancy. I highly doubt you did anyhting to hurt the baby, but if you are worried call your Ob. That is what they are there for. She will calm you down and you will be fine. We all make mistakes. Hope this makes you feel better.

Hey girl chill out. if you are really worried go to the doctor, but with my first child i was miserable and didn't take anything, with my second i took everything under the sun over the counter and she is completely healthy
cheer up some women smoke and their kids are fine, i ain't saying smoke but you stopped t hings should be fine

Hi, J.,

I wouldnt worry about it too much, but you can call your doctor for reassurance. I was taking Advil Cold medicine when I found out I was pregnant, and my baby was fine. I had taken it for a little over a week. I'd like to offer another piece of advice...when you are unsure about something or just feel afraid, don't hesitate to call your doctor. I had to call ALOT with my last pregnancy and my doctor told me she had rather I err on the side of caution. So, don't feel like you are unjustified in calling them about ANYTHING...after all, we pay them alot to take care of us and our unborn babies :)

Good luck with your pregnancy.

HI ya J.
I am sure that will be fine since your out of your 1st trimester, but tell your Dr. just for information. I would call and ask to speak to the nurse and tell her. They will reassure you. That is what i would do.
Congrats.
S.