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Flu and Pregnancy: The Best Over-the-Counter Medications

Updated: Jun 16, 2024

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Catching the flu is never fun, but getting sick while you have a little one on the way can be especially worrying. The good news is that even though pregnant women are more vulnerable to flu complications, there are many over the counter medications and home remedies that can help relieve your symptoms safely. Here's what expectant moms need to know about managing influenza.


Quick Look at the Over-the-Counter Treatment for Flu during Pregnancy

  1. Paracetamol-click here👉 Analgesic safe for Pregnant

  2. Vick VapoRub-click here👉 Mentholated Topical Ointment

  3. Salinase Nasal Drops-click here👉 Normal Saline Drops

  4. Strepsils Lozenges-click here👉 Chesty Cough Lozenges

  5. Strepsils Lozenges-click here👉 Dry Cough Lozenges


How Flu can Impact Pregnancy

The flu poses greater health risks for pregnant women compared to those who aren't expecting. Changes in immunity, lung capacity, and other bodily functions during pregnancy make you more likely to develop flu complications like:

  • Pneumonia

  • Bronchitis

  • Sinus and ear infections

  • Dehydration

  • Preterm labor and delivery

Influenza is more likely to cause severe illness in the second and third trimesters as lung capacity decreases. The fever, aches, dehydration, and other symptoms can also place extra strain on your body at a time when resources are already being shared.

Additionally, having the flu during pregnancy can raise risks for your developing baby. Catching an infectious illness like influenza exposes the fetus and may increase chances of:

  • Congenital disabilities

  • Lower birth weight

  • Prematurity

Spikes in maternal fever can also potentially lead to neural tube defects and other problems. This makes flu prevention especially vital for expectant mothers.


Over-the-Counter Medications Safe for Pregnancy


The good news is that there are many OTC remedies that can help relieve flu symptoms without posing harm to your pregnancy. Some of the most effective options include:

Paracetamol or Acetaminophen

  • Helps reduce fever and body aches/pains

  • Considered safe for pregnant women at recommended doses

  • Available as tablets, caplets, meltaways, and liquid suspensions

Nasal Saline Spray

  • Relieves sinus congestion and post-nasal drip

  • Adds moisture to dry nasal passages

  • Can be used as needed during pregnancy

  • Choose pre-made sprays or make your own saline solution

Cough Drops and Throat Sprays

  • Temporarily numb sore throat pain

  • Look for numbing ingredients like menthol or benzocaine

  • Opt for sugar-free options to avoid aggravating nausea

  • Can help suppress dry coughs

Chest Rubs and Balms

  • Mentholated rubs provide cooling relief for stuffy noses and chest congestion

  • Helpful for easing bronchitis and upper respiratory symptoms

  • Apply lightly to chest, neck and back but avoid nostrils

  • Choose odor-free balms to avoid aggravating nausea

When using OTC medications during pregnancy:

  • Carefully read all labels and active ingredients

  • Follow dosing directions and don't exceed maximum daily amounts

  • Consult with your obstetrician about any safety concerns

Other Ways to Treat Fu While Pregnant

While OTC medications can help target specific flu symptoms, there are also many natural home remedies that may provide relief without medication. Some holistic remedies to try include:

Staying Hydrated

  • Flu often leads to dehydration which can become serious if severe

  • Aim for at least 8 glasses of fluids daily or enough to keep urine clear yellow

  • Water, fruit/veggie juices, broth, Pedialyte, and coconut water are good choices

  • Signs of dehydration include concentrated urine, dizziness, rapid heartbeat

Getting Extra Rest

  • Body needs more sleep to heal when fighting influenza

  • Nap if you can or go to bed earlier while symptoms persist

  • Sleep propped on a pile of pillows to ease chest congestion

  • Diffusing lavender oil may also encourage deep rest

Trying Honey

  • Honey coats and soothes sore throat and coughs

  • Look for raw organic honey to avoid pollutants

  • Can be dissolved in tea or other warm beverages

  • Take 1-2 teaspoons as needed for symptom relief

Using a Humidifier

  • Warm mist humidifies eases chest congestion and coughs

  • Makes breathing easier by adding moisture to dry air

  • Place near bed to help avoid coughing at nighttime

  • Clean humidifier regularly to avoid spreading bacteria

Gargling with Salt Water

  • Helps flush mucus and soothe inflamed throat tissues

  • Use 1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt dissolved warm water

  • Gargle every 2-3 waking hours for best effects

  • Baking soda and salt works too.


How Can I Prevent Getting the Flu?

The best line of defense is to avoid getting sick in the first place when possible. Some of the most effective ways to avoid coming down with influenza while expecting include:

Get Vaccinated

  • All pregnant women should receive a flu shot each season

  • Vaccines trigger antibody production to fight off influenza viruses

  • Helps prevent 60% of potential flu cases in pregnant women

  • Safe to get in any trimester

  • Protects newborns first 6 months until they can get vaccinated

Practice Good Hygiene

  • Wash hands frequently and vigorously with soap for 20+ seconds

  • Use alcohol-based sanitizer when soap/water not available

  • Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth which welcome germs

  • Disinfect doorknobs, phones, remotes and other household items

Increase Immunity-Supporting Habits

  • Ensure good nutrition with extra fruits, vegetables and lean proteins

  • Take prenatal vitamins to avoid deficiencies

  • Stay active with walks to boost circulation

  • Get at least 8 hours of sleep nightly to keep immune system strong

Limit Exposure to Sick Individuals

  • Avoid those showing any flu or cold symptoms when possible

  • Request coworkers, family and friends wash hands before contact

  • Wear medical face mask in crowded enclosed locations during peak flu season

  • Stay 6+ feet from anyone coughing or sneezing

With some diligent prevention methods, hopefully you can avoid both catching and spreading influenza this year. But if you do come down sick, now you know there are many over the counter relief options that are pregnancy-safe.

When to Call the Doctor if you Have the Flu While Pregnant

While most flu cases can be managed at home, there are certain severe or persisting symptoms that signal it's time to get medical help. Reach out to your doctor right away if you experience:

High Fever Over 102°F (39°C) for More Than 3 Days

  • Sustained high fever raises risks of dehydration, seizures and neural issues

  • May signal secondary infection like pneumonia requiring antibiotics

Chest Pain When Coughing

  • Potential sign of lower respiratory complications

  • Should be evaluated quickly to treat dangerous infections

Shortness of Breath or Difficulty Breathing

  • Get immediate help if breathing issues arise

  • Can occur if flu progresses pneumonia or lung inflammation

Inability to Keep Foods or Liquids Down

  • Persistent vomiting makes staying hydrated impossible

  • Needs prompt treatment to avoid hospitalization

Signs of Severe Dehydration

  • Symptoms like concentrated urine, rapid heart rate, fainting, confusion

  • IV fluids may be required if unable to keep hydrated

Any Other Severe or Worsening Symptoms

  • Most pregnant women recover fully within 7-10 days

  • Lingering or unusual symptoms should be evaluated quickly

Trust your instincts and do not hesitate reaching out to your OB provider if the flu seems severe or outside the norm. Getting timely medical care helps ensure both you and baby recover safely.

Taking Antivirals if Prescribed by your Doctor

While most flu cases do not require prescription medications, your doctor may decide to prescribe antiviral drugs in certain situations such as:

If You Are At High Risk for Complications

  • All pregnant women are considered higher risk for flu complications

  • Antivirals help prevent illness progression & reduce hospitalization risks

If You Are Diagnosed Early Onset of Flu

  • Antivirals work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset

  • Can shorten duration by 1-2 days if given promptly

If You Have Severe Shortness of Breath

  • Difficulty breathing can mean pneumonia or inflamed lungs

  • Antivirals fight the underlying viral infection

If You Have Dangerously High Fever

  • Helps rapidly bring down sustained fevers above 104°F (40°C)

  • Lowers risks of febrile seizures, dehydration, and brain issues


Some common antiviral drugs given for flu include:

  • Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)

  • Zanamivir (Relenza)

  • Peramivir (Rapivab)

*Taken as oral capsules or inhaled powder

  • Often prescribed for 5-10 days or until fever is gone

  • Reduces symptoms 1-2 days on average

  • Safe for use in any trimester of pregnancy

Follow dosage instructions carefully. Let your provider know if nausea, vomiting or other concerning reactions occur. Avoid taking with dairy products and antacids which impair absorption. Resting, hydrating and taking OTC meds alongside these drugs also aids recovery.

Tips for Getting Better Sleep if you Have the Flu while Pregnant

Between stuffy sinuses, sore muscles, nagging coughs, and trips to the bathroom - getting decent sleep with the flu while pregnant can feel impossible. But adequate rest is crucial to recovering quickly. Here are some handy sleep tips if influenza is dragging you down:

Use Extra Pillows

  • Prop head and chest up on a mountain of pillows

  • Helps ease nasal congestion so you can breath easier

  • Takes pressure off lower back and belly

  • Try different pillow heights to find optimal position

Drink Warm Fluids Before Bed

  • Sip on warm tea, warm almond milk or broth

  • Soothing fluids relax muscles to unwind for sleep

  • Decaffeinated options like herbal tea, as caffeinated drinks can cause insomnia

Take a Warm Bath

  • Warm bath right before bed helps relieve aches and pains

  • Adding Epsom or Dead Sea bath salts enhances relaxation

  • Keeps nasal congestion at bay for a few hours

  • Follow with lightly scented lotion so skin doesn’t itch

Try Safe Prenatal Yoga Poses

  • Gentle stretches enhance circulation to ease congestion

  • Focuses on breathing to relax both body and mind

  • Poses like Child’s Pose relieve back pressure

  • Avoid advanced poses which require balance

Use Essential Oil Diffuser

  • Add a couple drops lavender, chamomile or eucalyptus oil

  • Promotes calmness and serenity

  • Eucalyptus clears nasal and chest congestion

  • Diffuse on continuous setting throughout the night

Hopefully these tips make battling both the flu and pregnancy fatigue a little bit easier. Know that this too shall pass! Before long that sweet baby will be keeping you up at night instead.

Conclusion: Flu Fighting Tips for Pregnant Moms

Getting sick with influenza anytime can knock you off your feet, but even more so during pregnancy as your body works overtime to support a growing baby. Don't hesitate to leverage both over the counter medications as well as natural remedies to help minimize symptoms.

The keys are to stay vigilant with fever tracking, medication dosing, and hydration levels when facing flu. Call your doctor promptly if you experience any severe or abnormal symptoms. They may decide antivirals are prudent to speed healing and prevent complications.

With some tender loving care measures, even a nasty case of the flu doesn't have to derail all parts of your pregnancy. Focus on nourishment and nurture of your body - and reach out for medical support if symptoms don’t improve.

And although it can seem pointless when you are battling influenza misery, do remember just how temporary this will be. Before you know it, the chills, fever and body aches will all be a distant memory. Soon you’ll have that sweet little one in your arms, with sleep troubles of a whole new kind ahead!

Stay healthy momma and let me know if you have any other pregnancy questions!



Take Control of Your Symptoms:

Try Recommended Products: Explore the recommended OTC products mentioned in this guide.

When using OTC medications during pregnancy:

  • Carefully read all labels and active ingredients

  • Follow dosing directions and don't exceed maximum daily amounts

  • Consult with your obstetrician about any safety concerns


Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance based on your specific health condition.




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