Can I Take Dramamine While Pregnant?

What is Dramamine?

Dramamine is the brand name for dimenhydrinate, an over-the-counter antihistamine. It is commonly used to treat motion sickness and nausea.

Is It Safe to Take Dramamine While Pregnant?

In general, it is not recommended to take Dramamine while pregnant. It is not clear if Dramamine is safe for use during pregnancy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies it as a Pregnancy Category C drug, which means that it has not been studied in pregnant women and is not known to be safe during pregnancy.

Risks of Taking Dramamine During Pregnancy

Although there is not enough evidence to say definitively whether or not Dramamine is safe during pregnancy, there is some evidence that suggests it may have risks. A study published in 2018 found that exposure to dimenhydrinate in the first trimester of pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of certain congenital anomalies, such as cleft palate and clubfoot.

Alternatives to Taking Dramamine During Pregnancy

There are some alternatives to taking Dramamine during pregnancy, including:

• Ginger: Ginger is a natural remedy that has been found to be effective in relieving nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture has been found to be effective in relieving nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy.
• Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is an over-the-counter supplement that has been found to be effective in relieving nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy.
• Prescription medications: There are some prescription medications that may be safe to take during pregnancy, however, it is important to speak to your healthcare provider before taking any medication while pregnant.

When to See a Doctor

If you are experiencing severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, it is important to speak to your healthcare provider. They can help determine the cause of your symptoms and provide appropriate treatment.

Bottom Line

In general, it is not recommended to take Dramamine while pregnant. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies it as a Pregnancy Category C drug, which means that it has not been studied in pregnant women and is not known to be safe during pregnancy. There are some alternatives to taking Dramamine during pregnancy, including ginger, acupuncture, vitamin B6, and prescription medications. If you are experiencing severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, it is important to speak to your healthcare provider.