Safe Cough Drops During Pregnancy: Ingredients to Look For

Cough drops are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, and common ingredients like menthol and honey can help soothe a sore throat. However, it's important to choose products wisely, follow dosage instructions, and check with your healthcare provider before using cough drops that contain dextromethorphan or benzocaine.

Common Ingredients in Cough Drops and Their Safety

Cough drops contain various active and inactive ingredients. Here's what you need to know about the most common ones:

• Menthol: Derived from mint plants, menthol provides a cooling sensation that can relieve throat irritation. It is considered safe during pregnancy when used in typical amounts found in cough drops.
• Honey: Honey has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and can coat the throat. It is safe for pregnant women, but those with gestational diabetes should monitor their intake due to its sugar content.
• Benzocaine: A local anesthetic that numbs the throat. Human data does not show an increased risk of birth defects, but it should be used only as directed and for short periods.
• Dextromethorphan: A cough suppressant found in some medicated cough drops. It is generally considered safe in pregnancy, but you should consult your provider because it can interact with other medications.
• Vitamin C and Zinc: Often added for immune support. In the amounts present in cough drops, they are safe, but high doses from supplements should be avoided.

According to BabyCenter, cough drops are considered safe during pregnancy, and ingredients like menthol and honey can help soothe your throat. However, they advise checking with your provider before using drops containing dextromethorphan or benzocaine. You can also explore Can You Eat Cough Drops While Pregnant? Safety Guide for a closer comparison.

Specific Brands and Formulations

Many popular cough drop brands are safe during pregnancy when used as directed. Here's a breakdown: For the next step, read our overview of When to Start Raspberry Leaf Tea in Pregnancy: 32 Weeks.

• Halls: Most Halls varieties contain menthol as the active ingredient and are safe. Avoid sugar-free versions with excessive sugar alcohols if you experience stomach upset. Halls Breezers are essentially candy and may not provide medicinal benefit.
• Ricola: Ricola drops contain a blend of herbs and menthol. They are generally considered safe, but if you have allergies to any herbs, check the label. Some Ricola products contain alcohol as a solvent, so choose alcohol-free versions if possible.
• Vicks VapoDrops: These contain menthol and are safe. Vicks also makes VapoCool drops with benzocaine; use those sparingly and only as needed.
• Cepacol: Cepacol lozenges contain benzocaine and menthol. They are effective for severe sore throat but should be used only for a few days.
• Luden's: Luden's are mainly pectin-based and act as a demulcent. They are safe but provide only mild relief.

The University of Illinois Hospital notes that cough drops may be used during pregnancy for cough and sore throat relief (UI Health).

Ingredients to Use with Caution or Avoid

While most cough drops are safe, some ingredients warrant caution:

• Dextromethorphan: Although generally considered safe, it should be used under medical guidance, especially if you take other medications. The maximum recommended dose is 120 mg in 24 hours, but cough drops typically contain much less.
• Benzocaine: Safe in small amounts, but overuse can lead to methemoglobinemia, a rare blood disorder. Follow package directions.
• Herbal blends: Some cough drops contain multiple herbs like echinacea, goldenseal, or yarrow. These herbs have limited safety data in pregnancy, so it's best to avoid products with long lists of unfamiliar herbs.
• Artificial sweeteners: Sugar-free cough drops may contain aspartame, sorbitol, or xylitol. While generally safe, excessive sorbitol or xylitol can cause diarrhea. Aspartame is considered safe in pregnancy except for women with phenylketonuria (PKU).
• Alcohol: Some liquid-filled cough drops or sprays may contain alcohol. Choose alcohol-free options to be safe.

InfantRisk Center states that benzocaine lozenges do not show a risk of birth defects and may be considered if benefits outweigh risks (InfantRisk).

Non-Medicated Alternatives for Cough and Sore Throat

If you prefer to avoid medication, several natural remedies can provide relief:

• Warm salt water gargle: Mix 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and gargle several times a day.
• Honey: A spoonful of honey can coat the throat and reduce coughing. It's safe in pregnancy.
• Warm tea with lemon: Herbal teas like chamomile or ginger (in moderation) can be soothing. Avoid teas with licorice root or large amounts of caffeine.
• Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water can help loosen mucus and soothe the throat.
• Humidifier: Using a cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom can keep airways moist.
• Popsicles or ice chips: Cold can numb the throat and provide temporary relief.

UT Southwestern Medical Center suggests that honey can improve nighttime coughing and is an option for pregnant women (UTSW MedBlog).

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

While a cough or sore throat is usually due to a cold, you should contact your provider if you experience:

• Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
• Symptoms lasting more than a week without improvement
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Coughing up blood or green/yellow mucus
• Signs of dehydration (dark urine, dizziness)
• Severe sore throat with difficulty swallowing

These could indicate a bacterial infection like strep throat or a more serious condition requiring medical treatment.

Dosage and Usage Tips

To use cough drops safely during pregnancy:

• Follow the package directions; do not exceed the recommended number per day.
• Allow the drop to dissolve slowly in your mouth; do not chew or swallow whole.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Avoid using cough drops continuously for more than a few days unless advised by your provider.
• If you have gestational diabetes, choose sugar-free options or limit intake and monitor blood sugar.
• Check with your provider before using any new medication, even over-the-counter products.

Remember, cough drops treat symptoms but do not cure the underlying cold. Rest, fluids, and time are essential for recovery.