What medications can improve appetite during pregnancy?

Aug 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, during pregnancy, hormonal changes and gastrointestinal dysfunction may lead to symptoms such as decreased appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Pregnant women may take medications such as vitamin B6 tablets, dried yeast tablets, lactase tablets, compound digestive enzyme capsules, and multienzyme tablets as directed by a physician to improve appetite. It is also advisable to eat small, frequent meals and choose light, easily digestible, and nutrient-rich foods.

Generally, during pregnancy, due to hormonal changes, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and other factors, symptoms such as decreased appetite, nausea, and vomiting commonly occur. Pregnant women may take medications such as vitamin B6 tablets, dried yeast tablets, lactase tablets, compound digestive enzyme capsules, and multienzyme tablets under medical guidance to improve appetite. The specific details are as follows:

1. Vitamin B6 Tablets

Vitamin B6 participates in various metabolic processes in the body and can alleviate nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, thereby indirectly improving appetite. It is suitable for pregnant women experiencing mild to moderate morning sickness leading to poor appetite. It should be taken according to the dosage recommended by a physician to avoid overdose.

2. Dried Yeast Tablets

Dried yeast tablets contain abundant B-complex vitamins, amino acids, and trace elements that promote gastrointestinal motility, aid digestion, and enhance appetite. They are suitable for pregnant women whose appetite has decreased due to weakened digestive function and should be chewed after meals.

3. Lactase Tablets

Lactase tablets are a dried preparation of live enterococcus that decomposes carbohydrates in the intestine to produce lactic acid, increasing intestinal acidity. This inhibits the growth and reproduction of putrefactive bacteria, prevents intestinal fermentation, reduces gas production, and helps improve digestion and stimulate appetite. These tablets are suitable for pregnant women whose poor appetite is caused by intestinal flora imbalance.

4. Compound Digestive Enzyme Capsules

Compound digestive enzyme capsules contain multiple digestive enzymes such as pepsin and pancreatic enzymes, which aid in the breakdown and absorption of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in food, thereby relieving symptoms like bloating and loss of appetite. These capsules should be used under a physician's guidance during pregnancy, and are contraindicated in individuals allergic to the product.

5. Multienzyme Tablets

Multienzyme tablets contain pancreatic enzymes and pepsin. Pancreatic enzymes break down fats, starches, and proteins, while pepsin initiates the digestion of proteins. Together, they work synergistically to promote digestion and increase appetite. These tablets are suitable for pregnant women whose appetite has decreased due to insufficient digestive enzyme secretion and should be swallowed whole before meals.

In daily life, it is advisable to eat small, frequent meals and choose light, easily digestible, and nutrient-rich foods such as vegetable porridge and fruit puree. Avoid exposure to cooking fumes and unpleasant odors that may trigger discomfort. Maintaining a relaxed mood and engaging in light physical activities like walking can also help improve appetite during pregnancy.