Can You Take Zicam While Pregnant? | It's Particulars of Safe Situations

With allergy season in full swing, many expectant moms look for products like Zicam to help with symptoms. Throw in the chances of catching a common cold and you could be asking, “Can you take Zicam while pregnant?” Choosing allergy or cold remedies safe to use in pregnancy isn’t as clear cut as you may expect.

Can You Take Zicam While Pregnant According To Experts?

Zicam could be taken during pregnancy only when prescribed by a doctor because it‘s categorized as a category C drug by the FDA.

Can I take Zicam while pregnant? It’s FDA’s C category drug, meaning that adverse risks have been identified but research and data are restricted to animals. Lack of data on a drug in category C does not prove its safety or risk to a human fetus. I’ll talk more about FDA’s guidelines on taking Zicam while pregnant sooner in this article, but first, let’s see what Zicam is.

What Is Zicam?

Zicam products are homeopathic over-the-counter products used by many people. The manufacturer prides the main active component to be zinc which research suggests can help shorten the length of a cold.

With these meds readily available both in lozenge and nasal spray form they get to work on the first sign of a sniffle in the bid to stop symptoms from worsening for longer than necessary. To add to their wonder the Zicam brand also has an allergy relief nasal spray and immune system-boosting vitamins.

With all that this product has to offer is there a catch? Are they deemed safe for expectant moms to take without risk to their baby?

Understanding Zicam: How Zicam Works

Zicam works by utilizing its main active ingredient, zinc, to help combat cold symptoms. Zinc is known to have a positive impact on the immune system and can potentially shorten the duration of a cold 1. When you start to feel the first signs of a cold, using Zicam in the form of a lozenge or nasal spray can help reduce the severity and length of your symptoms. You might wonder how this is relevant to your pregnancy, and the answer lies in understanding the potential risks and benefits of using Zicam while expecting.

FDA’s Details Guidelines on Taking Zicam While Pregnant

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for ensuring the safety and efficacy of medications, including those used during pregnancy. It’s essential to be aware of the FDA’s guidelines on using Zicam while pregnant to make the most informed decision for you and your baby.

Zicam’s classification within FDA pregnancy categories

The FDA has classified Zicam as a Category C medication, which means that there have been some adverse effects noted in animal studies, but there is limited data on its effects on human pregnancies. This classification suggests that Zicam should only be used if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

FDA’s Recommendations For the Use of Zicam During Pregnancy

The FDA advises that pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using any medication, including Zicam. Since the safety of Zicam during pregnancy is not well-established, it’s essential to have a conversation with your doctor to determine whether using Zicam is appropriate for your specific situation.

So, Is Zicam Safe During Pregnancy?

Zicam is safe only when approved by your doctor.

Over the counter drugs are useful for those times when seeing a doctor feels unnecessary yet symptoms of common seasonal allergies or common colds lead us to popular over the counter meds to help with our symptoms.

Being pregnant means your immunity has pushed boundaries leaving you at a greater risk of picking up pesky colds, grabbing your go to med may now raise a red flag.

With so many decongestants and flu medications containing active ingredients that could potentially harm your baby, you may wish to ride out your symptoms until they pass. On the other hand, you may be on the hunt for the best way to alleviate your sinus pressure or stuffy nostrils, leading to the question, ‘Can I take Zicam while pregnant?’

Possible Side Effects of Zicam During Pregnancy

When considering the use of Zicam during pregnancy, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects and how they might impact both you and your developing baby.

Impact on The Mother

While Zicam is generally well-tolerated, some people may experience side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or a metallic taste in the mouth. Pregnant women might be more susceptible to these side effects due to hormonal changes and increased sensitivity. It’s essential to weigh the potential benefits of using Zicam against the possible discomforts it may cause during pregnancy.

Alleviating cold symptoms: If Zicam effectively shortens the duration or lessens the severity of a cold, it may provide relief for the mother, allowing her to better focus on her health and well-being during pregnancy.

Hormonal changes: Pregnancy comes with a variety of hormonal changes that can impact a woman’s sensitivity to medications. These changes may make pregnant women more susceptible to the side effects of Zicam, or they may experience different side effects than they would when not pregnant.

Interactions with other medications or supplements: Pregnant women often take prenatal vitamins or other medications during pregnancy to ensure the health of both themselves and their baby. It’s essential to consider any potential interactions between Zicam and these medications or supplements, as they may lead to adverse effects on the mother.

Impact On The Developing Fetus

Zicam contains zinc as its primary active ingredient. Zinc is an essential trace element required for the proper growth and development of the fetus. However, excessive zinc intake can potentially lead to negative effects, such as interfering with the absorption of other essential nutrients like copper and iron, which are crucial for fetal development.

Moreover, zinc in high concentrations has been shown to cause cell toxicity. Although the concentrations of zinc in Zicam products may not be high enough to cause direct harm to the developing fetus, it is still essential to be cautious with the use of any medication during pregnancy.

Additionally, since Zicam is available in both lozenge and nasal spray forms, the route of administration might also influence the potential impact on the developing fetus. Nasal sprays are thought to pose a lower risk compared to oral medications because they are less likely to enter the bloodstream and reach the fetus. However, this does not guarantee the safety of the product during pregnancy.

Possible Risks To Pregnancy

The risks that are identified with OTC medications are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, records show that any drug that is classified as ‘homeopathic’ has not been reviewed by the FDA for its safety whilst treating the illness.

Whilst the answer to can pregnant women take zicam? Remains in the grey zone it’s important to recognize that further research into Zicam needs to be developed before declaring any risk to an unborn baby.

Can you take Zicam while pregnant? What we do know is that most nasal sprays and decongestants are off limits to pregnant women in their first trimester as it can affect your blood pressure although nasal sprays are thought to provide lesser risk as the opportunity for the medication to circulate to your baby is reduced compared to an oral decongestant.

When Is Zicam Safe During Pregnancy?

As the risks to pregnancy are so unclear, the only way to ensure your and your baby’s safety when considering the question, “Can you take Zicam while pregnant?” is to have a chat with your doctor. As stated on the Zicam website itself, professional advice must be sought prior to taking this medicine.

Your doctor can monitor your baby and symptoms before making the decision. If the benefits of taking Zicam outrun the unknown risks then you may be directed by your doctor to use a reduced dose.

Safe OTC Medications for Pregnant Women

While it’s essential to consult your doctor before taking any medications during pregnancy, some over-the-counter (OTC) medications are generally considered safe for pregnant women to use for cold and allergy relief:

1. Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Acetaminophen can be used to relieve pain and reduce fever during pregnancy. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage and avoid combining it with other medications that contain acetaminophen.

2. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): This antihistamine can help relieve allergy symptoms, such as sneezing and itching. However, it can cause drowsiness, so use caution when taking it during the day.

3. Saline nasal spray: Saline nasal sprays are a safe way to relieve congestion and stuffiness during pregnancy, as they do not contain any medication.

4. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed): This decongestant can be used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, but it is not recommended during the first trimester. Consult your doctor before using pseudoephedrine, as it can cause a rise in blood pressure.

Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any OTC medications during pregnancy, and make sure to follow their recommendations and dosage instructions.

Alternative Therapies

If reaching for OTC meds is not something you wish to run a risk with then you may wish to try out some alternative forms of cold relief.

The top two tips for any pregnant momma, who might be wondering, “Can you take Zicam while pregnant?” would be:

Rest
Hydrate

Fluids are your body and baby’s best friend right now so keeping topped up on the clear H²O is perfect when fighting a cold. Not only will it help to form the amniotic fluid that surrounds your baby but it also aids nutrients around your body, enhances steady digestion, and works to get rid of the waste while flushing out toxins.

Rest is also a good cure for any ailments that forbid you during pregnancy. Your body is working at super drive speed so defenses right now are down. Resting helps your body restore and repair energy levels to ensure your baby is getting all it needs from you.

Overdoing it when you feel sick in pregnancy will make you feel 100 times worse and prolong your symptoms so sometimes it’s best to listen to your body and chill while you can.

Home Remedies

Right so rest and water are the two contributing natural factors key to fighting illness in pregnancy but sometimes your symptoms will beg for an alternative method. If you find that your body needs a little kick in the right direction then consider using the following:

Gargle warm salt water – this can help ease a sore throat although this solution may be harder than you think especially if morning sickness has reared its ugly head.

Saline Drops – saline is safe in pregnancy its a sterile water that, if used in a nasal format, works to loosen excess mucus and cool down your nasal pathways helping you to breathe a bit easier.

Steaming it up – inhaling warm steam from a shower or facial steamer can help ease congestion in your sinuses.

Soups and teas – warm liquids that are caffeine free can help soothe a sore throat and relieve congestion.

Honey/lemon – most cold medications are flavored with one or both of these ingredients so whilst pregnant it’s safe to hit the direct source. Infusing hot water with these ingredients can soothe inflamed airways and ease your throat.

Hot/ cold Therapy– ice packs or a warm compress on your sinus points can reduce swelling of the pathways in the sinus region.

Natural Ways to Boost Immunity During Pregnancy

Throughout my 5 pregnancies, I realized the importance of keeping my immune system strong to ensure that both my baby and I stayed healthy. Through my personal experience, I discovered several simple and natural ways to boost immunity during pregnancy. Here are some tips that helped me, and I hope they will help you too:

1. Proper nutrition: Eating a well-balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats, will provide your body with the essential vitamins and minerals it needs to support a strong immune system. Focus on consuming foods high in vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin D, as these nutrients play a vital role in immune function.

2. Exercise: Engaging in regular, moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, can help boost your immunity by increasing blood circulation and reducing stress levels. Always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine during pregnancy.

3. Stress management: High levels of stress can weaken your immune system, so it’s crucial to find healthy ways to cope with stress during pregnancy. Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and prenatal massages are excellent ways to relax and manage stress.

4. Adequate sleep: Make sure you are getting plenty of rest, as lack of sleep can negatively impact your immune system. Aim for at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night and take naps during the day if needed.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most colds and allergies can be managed at home, there are situations when you should seek medical attention. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately:

High fever (over 100.4°F or 38°C) that does not respond to acetaminophen
Severe headache or sinus pain
Shortness of breath or wheezing
Chest pain or tightness
Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Signs of dehydration, such as dark urine or dizziness upon standing
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Reduced fetal movement
Unexpected dizziness
Chest pains or difficulty breathing
Feeling confused
Vaginal bleeding
Change in movements from your baby
Severe sickness

In some cases, you may need medication or just observation depending on your symptoms and the risk they pose to you and your baby but your doctor is the best person to make this call.

Wrapping it Up

Can you take Zicam while pregnant? Catching a cold or suffering from allergies whilst pregnant can make you miserable. Although Zicam hasn’t been approved as a drug safe to use in pregnancy your doctor may agree that sparing doses will outweigh the benefits to risks.

If you don’t feel comfortable taking the chance then you always have alternative options that may give you the same relief as OTC drugs.

Feeling congested or having a stuffy nose may just be a part of your pregnancy. If you don’t have any other cold symptoms then your body could be responding to the extra blood flow and hormonal changes, otherwise known as rhinitis. This can disappear as quickly as it appears.

Can You Take Zicam While Pregnant? | It’s Particulars of Safe Situations