What medications can be taken for cold and cough during pregnancy?

First, based on the severity of the illness: if symptoms are severe, you should definitely visit a hospital to determine the underlying cause—whether it is a bacterial or viral infection. If symptoms are mild, home treatment with over-the-counter medications may be appropriate. Generally, medication labels state “contraindicated during pregnancy,” “not recommended for pregnant women,” or “use with caution during pregnancy.” Medications labeled as safe for use during pregnancy are generally considered low-risk and well-tolerated. For common cold symptoms—especially when fever or pain is prominent—acetaminophen (paracetamol) is commonly recommended. Acetaminophen is considered safe for use throughout pregnancy. For cough relief, traditional Chinese herbal syrups may be used.

Which medications are safe for colds and coughs during pregnancy?

The first trimester (first three months) of pregnancy is known as the early pregnancy period. If you develop a cold or cough during early pregnancy, medication is generally not recommended. Instead, you may drink ginger tea or perilla (Perilla frutescens) decoction to dispel wind-cold and relieve coughing. Perilla also has a potential fetal-protective effect. During the second and third trimesters, if you experience cold or cough symptoms, Shuang Huang Lian oral liquid may help alleviate them. Drink plenty of water, get adequate rest, and avoid exposure to cold. If necessary, consult a gynecologist at a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) hospital for a personalized herbal prescription. Note that all the above recommendations apply only to mild colds. If pneumonia develops or the cold persists for an extended period, seek medical attention promptly; under physician guidance, appropriate antibiotics may be prescribed to control infection.If you experience mild coughing and nasal discharge during early pregnancy, monitor your body temperature first. A temperature exceeding 37.5°C warrants immediate medical evaluation.

If sore throat or cough worsens, and phlegm changes from white to yellow in large amounts—or if symptoms interfere significantly with normal rest and sleep, accompanied by headache, generalized myalgia, and progressively rising body temperature—this may indicate influenza or another infectious process, requiring prompt medical evaluation and treatment.