From the FDA Drug Label
If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. The FDA drug label does not provide a direct answer to the question of whether cough drops are safe during pregnancy, but it advises to ask a health professional before use if pregnant or breast-feeding 1.
From the Research
Most cough drops are generally safe to use during pregnancy, with honey-based cough drops being the safest option. When considering the use of cough drops during pregnancy, it's essential to prioritize the safety of both the mother and the fetus. According to the most recent study 2, symptomatic treatments for cough have shown to be ineffective, which suggests that the focus should be on safe and gentle relief options.
Key Considerations
- Regular menthol or honey-based cough drops without medication are considered safe options during pregnancy.
- Medicated cough drops containing benzocaine or dextromethorphan are relatively safe when used as directed, but their effectiveness is questionable 2.
- Cough drops with high alcohol content, excessive sugar substitutes, or herbal ingredients like echinacea or licorice root should be avoided.
- Honey has been shown to be a preferable treatment for cough and sleep difficulty associated with upper respiratory tract infections in children 3, and its safety profile makes it a suitable option for pregnant women as well.
Recommendations
- Always check the ingredient list and use cough drops only as needed.
- Try non-medicated options first, such as honey-based drops or warm tea with honey.
- Persistent coughs during pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare provider, as they might indicate an underlying condition requiring different treatment.
- The safety concern with cough medications during pregnancy relates to their potential effects on fetal development, but most common cough drop ingredients have not been linked to birth defects when used occasionally and as directed 4, 3.