| Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) |
Nausea (rare), liver toxicity in overdose |
Generally recommended as first-line for pain/fever in pregnancy when needed at the lowest effective dose; regulatory bodies are monitoring emerging studies so use under medical advice. |
| Amoxicillin / Penicillins |
Diarrhea, allergic reactions (rash, anaphylaxis in rare cases) |
Widely used and generally considered safe in pregnancy for recommended indications; avoid if allergic to penicillins. |
| Ondansetron (Zofran) |
Headache, constipation, dizziness |
Often used for severe pregnancy nausea/vomiting; most studies show low overall risk but some observational studies reported small possible links with cardiac anomalies — discuss risks/benefits with your clinician. |
| Tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline) |
Gastrointestinal upset, photosensitivity |
Generally avoided in pregnancy because they can deposit in fetal bones/teeth (may cause discolouration and affect bone growth); alternative antibiotics are preferred. |
| Ibuprofen & other NSAIDs |
Stomach upset, increased bleeding tendency, kidney effects with prolonged use |
Use is discouraged especially after ~20 weeks (and in the 3rd trimester) because of risk of reduced amniotic fluid and fetal kidney/heart effects; avoid unless directed by a clinician. |
| Metformin |
Nausea, diarrhea, metallic taste (usually mild) |
Used for gestational diabetes/PCOS in some cases; considered by many clinicians when benefits outweigh risks — use only under obstetric care and blood-glucose monitoring. |