Is benzonatate safe to take while pregnant?

Benzonatate and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Benzonatate, a non-narcotic oral cough suppressant, is commonly prescribed to alleviate coughs by numbing the throat and lungs. However, its safety during pregnancy remains a topic of concern among healthcare professionals and expectant mothers alike.
FDA Classification and Risks
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) categorizes benzonatate as a Category C medication. This classification indicates that while animal studies have shown some adverse effects on the fetus, there are no well-controlled studies in humans to definitively establish its safety. The potential risks cannot be ruled out, which means that the decision to use benzonatate during pregnancy should be approached with caution.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
Given the uncertainties surrounding its safety, it is crucial for pregnant women to consult their healthcare providers before taking benzonatate. The decision to use this medication should involve a careful assessment of the potential benefits against the risks. Healthcare professionals may recommend alternative treatments that have a more established safety profile during pregnancy.
Alternatives and Recommendations
Many healthcare providers suggest considering safer alternatives for cough relief, particularly those that have been more thoroughly studied in pregnant populations. For instance, some patients have reported using medications like Robitussin, which contains dextromethorphan, as a safer option.
Moreover, if a woman becomes pregnant while taking benzonatate, it is advised to inform her doctor immediately to discuss the best course of action.
Conclusion
In summary, while benzonatate may be effective for cough suppression, its use during pregnancy is not without risks. The FDA’s Category C classification highlights the need for caution and thorough discussion with healthcare providers. Expectant mothers should prioritize their health and the health of their unborn child by seeking professional guidance before using this medication.

Who should not take benzonatate?

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to benzonatate or topical numbing medicines such as tetracaine or procaine (found in some insect bite and sunburn creams). Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Benzonatate is not approved for use by anyone younger than 10 years old.

Is Mucinex safe to take while pregnant?

Mucinex, Mucinex D, Mucinex DM, and the extra-strength versions of each, because the six forms of Mucinex contain guaifenesin. Avoid taking any of these during the first trimester of pregnancy. However, they may be safe to use during later trimesters.

What cough remedies are safe during pregnancy?

Cough

1. To help eliminate secretions, drink plenty of water.
2. Dextromethorphan syrup (e.g. Benylin DM) can be used to relieve a dry cough.
3. Most cough drops (e.g. Halls) are safe in pregnancy.
4. Consult your family doctor if: Your cough persists beyond seven (7) days.
5. Avoid preparations containing pseudoephedrine.

What can a pregnant woman take for mucus in throat?

Safe Cough and Sore Throat Remedies During Pregnancy

• Honey.
• Dextromethorphan or Dextromethorphan-guaifenesin, such as Robitussin and Robitussin DM.
• Nasal drops or sprays.
• Acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, for aches, pains, sore throat and fever.
• Salt water gargling.
• Menthol rub on chest, temples and under the nose.

How to stop uncontrollable coughing at night while pregnant?

10 Home Remedies For A Cold and Cough During Pregnancy

1. Stay Hydrated. Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, and it becomes even more important when you’re dealing with a cold during pregnancy.
2. Take Prenatal Vitamins.
3. A Hot Soup.
4. Pineapple Juice.
5. Humidifier.
6. Ginger.
7. Bed Rest.
8. Tumeric.

What cough medicine is safe in pregnancy?

The two main ingredients in many OTC cough (and cold) medicines are dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant) and guaifenesin (an expectorant that loosens up thick mucus). Gebhardt, Ross and Roman all say that these two ingredients should be safe during pregnancy.

Is benzonatate safe in pregnancy?

Not preferred due to limited data: Benzonatate: Benzonatate is a prescription cough medication. Safe use of benzonatate during pregnancy has been described, but there is minimal data on the safety of benzonatate during pregnancy. Other medications with more evidence for safety during pregnancy may be more ideal.

Why is benzonatate bad?

There have been reports of serious benzonatate side effects in children under 10 years old. These include seizures, coma, and cardiac arrest. There have also been reports of death. These serious side effects are related to benzonatate toxicity (overdose).

What can you take for a productive cough while pregnant?

To treat coughing when pregnant, you can drink lemon tea with ginger and honey, as this tea contains antimicrobial properties that help to keep the throat hydrated and relieve nausea, vomiting and cold or flu symptoms.

Which medicine not to take during pregnancy?

Teratogenic drugs and medicines

• ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors used to treat high blood pressure or congestive heart failure.
• Angiotensin II antagonists, also used to treat high blood pressure or congestive heart failure.
• Isotretinoin (an acne drug)
• Alcohol.
• Cocaine.
• high doses of vitamin A.
• Lithium.