Can You Take Theraflu While Pregnant?

You know that feeling.

The familiar tickle in the throat.

That little sniffle.

It’s cold and flu season, baby.

And one of these viruses has made itself a guest in your body.

Only now you’re also carrying an actual baby as a guest, too.

If it’s usually your go-to, you are probably wondering, can you take Theraflu while pregnant?

(And before we dive in, know that this is not intended as medical advice. If you have a health concern, please contact your physician or another medical professional.)

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Can I take Theraflu if pregnant?

Theraflu isn’t just one product — it’s the brand name for a range of OTC cold and flu medications, including drink powders, syrups, and tablets.

Each Theraflu product is slightly different, but they all contain at least one ingredient which means you have to proceed with caution during pregnancy.

So, can pregnant women take Theraflu?

We’re sorry to not have a cut-and-dried answer for you, but the best thing to do is ask your doctor.

The FDA rates ingredients according to pregnancy safety.

Every Theraflu product contains at least one ingredient that is labeled Category C, which means animal tests have shown they have the potential to harm a developing fetus, but no conclusive testing has been done in humans.

In general, you can take Category C drugs if the possible benefits outweigh the possible risks.

With that being the case, the only way to answer, is Theraflu safe during pregnancy? is to talk to your doctor about your situation.

Can you take Theraflu while pregnant in the 1st trimester?

Which trimester you’re in makes a difference.

The first trimester is when your baby is most at risk for developing birth differences.

So you may want to be extra cautious during this time and avoid Theraflu while pregnant in the 1st trimester.

Can you take Theraflu while pregnant in the 3rd trimester?

When it comes to whether you can take Theraflu while pregnant in the third trimester, many healthcare professionals also suggest you be extra cautious in this final phase.

Basically, your body is going through a lot and needs to be treated with care.

Luckily, there are other remedies you can try for cold and flu that are considered safe during pregnancy.

Keep reading.

What cold medicine is okay while pregnant?

The safest bet when you’re pregnant and have a cold is to rest, get lots of fluids, and try to avoid medicines, if you can.

If you can, stick to natural remedies like honey for a sore throat and a humidifier to help clear congestion.

Of course, sometimes colds make us miserable and we need something stronger than honey for relief.

In general, acetaminophen/Tylenol/paracetamol is safe to take in pregnancy for headaches and fever.

Just make sure to take only when necessary and at the lowest possible dose.

If you need medicine for something like a sore throat or congestion, ask your doctor for their recommendation.

Here too, most over-the-counter cough syrups and decongestants require caution during pregnancy.

What can I take for the flu while pregnant?

The flu is not fun, and if you have one while pregnant, it can get really miserable.

We feel for you, mama-to-be.

Unfortunately, most other OTC flu medicines, along with Theraflu, contain similar ingredients and come with similar warnings during pregnancy.

The best thing to do if you’re pregnant and have the flu is to call your doctor.

They can discuss your situation with you, weigh up the risks and benefits of different medications, and recommend some remedies.

Remember, this is not the time to be a hero and carry on even if you have the flu.

If at all possible, take the day off, rest, and drink lots of fluids.

And if you start to feel fluey in the run-up to your due date, it could be one of these uninvited viral guests.

But it could also be that your body is letting you know that it’s gearing up for labor.

In any case, check in with your doctor, they’ll be able to advise you further.

Feel better. Rest up. Exciting times are coming!