Is Delsym safe during pregnancy?

Understanding Delsym and Its Safety During Pregnancy
As the cold and flu season approaches, many expectant mothers find themselves grappling with the question of whether over-the-counter medications like Delsym, which contains dextromethorphan, are safe to use during pregnancy. The answer is nuanced, reflecting a balance between potential benefits and risks.
Dextromethorphan: What You Need to Know
Delsym is a popular cough suppressant that contains dextromethorphan, a common ingredient in many cold medications. According to the FDA, dextromethorphan falls under Pregnancy Category C, which means that risk cannot be ruled out. This classification indicates that while animal studies may not show harm, there is insufficient data from human studies to definitively assess safety during pregnancy.
Research on the use of dextromethorphan during pregnancy has yielded mixed results. A study involving 184 pregnant women who took dextromethorphan found no significant increase in the risk of stillbirth or low birth weight. However, other analyses have raised concerns. For instance, some studies suggest a potential link between the use of cough medications containing dextromethorphan and certain birth defects, particularly when taken early in pregnancy.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals
Given the uncertainty surrounding the safety of Delsym, healthcare professionals generally advise pregnant women to consult with their doctors before taking any medication. This is particularly important as many women may not discuss their use of over-the-counter drugs with their healthcare providers, despite the fact that over 80% of pregnant women take some form of medication during their pregnancy.
Experts emphasize the importance of avoiding unnecessary medications during this critical period. While some anecdotal evidence suggests that Delsym may be relatively safe, it is crucial for expectant mothers to weigh the risks and benefits in consultation with their healthcare providers.
The Bottom Line
In summary, while Delsym may be considered safe for some pregnant women, the lack of comprehensive studies means that caution is warranted. The potential risks associated with dextromethorphan, particularly concerning birth defects, cannot be overlooked. Therefore, the best course of action for pregnant women experiencing cough or cold symptoms is to seek personalized medical advice to ensure both their health and that of their developing baby.

Who should not use Delsym?

Delsym contraindications
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to dextromethorphan. You should not use this medicine if you are also using an MAO inhibitor (such as Parnate®, Nardil®, or Marplan®) or if you have used one of these medicines in the past 2 weeks.

Can I take Mucinex while pregnant?

Because the six forms of Mucinex listed above all contain guaifenesin, you should avoid taking any of them during the first trimester of your pregnancy. However, they may be safe to use during later trimesters.

Is Delsym the same as Robitussin?

Delsym is best for dry, non-productive coughs, whereas Robitussin DM is more suitable for productive coughs with mucus, as it helps clear chest congestion. Both medications may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. Robitussin DM may also cause stomach pain and headaches due to its guaifenesin content.

What cough medicine can you take while pregnant?

Safe options include: plain cough syrup, such as Vicks. dextromethorphan (Robitussin; category C) and dextromethorphan-guaifenesin (Robitussin DM; category C) cough syrups.

Can you take a delsym cough while pregnant?

The bottom line. Certain cold medications are considered safe for most people during pregnancy. They include dextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) for cough and antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine for a runny nose. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is also generally considered safe, as are most steroid nasal sprays.

Which is better, Mucinex or Delsym?

Comparing Delsym vs Mucinex
Delsym has an average rating of 3.3 out of 10 from a total of 240 ratings on Drugs.com. 16% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 68% reported a negative effect. Mucinex has an average rating of 6.2 out of 10 from a total of 154 ratings on Drugs.com.

Which is better, Robitussin or Delsym?

Delsym can be helpful if you have a dry cough, while Robitussin-DM is best for a productive (wet) cough and chest congestion. Both medications are generally safe to use despite their mild side effects.

What does the DM stand for in Delsym?

(dextromethorphan) DIN (Drug Identification Number)

How do I treat a cough in 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.

Can cough affect baby in the womb?

Coughing alone does not pose a threat to the child. It is merely a persistent ailment that, because of the expectant mother’s pregnancy, should be treated in the early stages of development.