---
title: "Medicines in pregnancy and breastfeeding: Uses & Side…"
description: "How to check prescription, pharmacy, herbal and over-the-counter medicines during pregnancy or breastfeeding without stopping essential treatment abruptly."
url: https://healthanswers.co.uk/treatments/medicines-in-pregnancy-and-breastfeeding/
robots: noindex
---

# Medicines in pregnancy and breastfeeding: Uses & Side…

Treatments

How to check prescription, pharmacy, herbal and over-the-counter medicines during pregnancy or breastfeeding without stopping essential treatment abruptly.

Written by HealthAnswers editorial team Medically reviewed by [HealthAnswers UK doctor review panel](https://healthanswers.co.uk/our-doctors/) Reviewed 1 August 2026

## Quick answer

Which medicines are safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding? Check every medicine with a pharmacist, midwife, GP or specialist during pregnancy and breastfeeding, including pharmacy and herbal products. Do not stop prescribed medicine suddenly without advice, because untreated illness can also harm you or the baby. The safest choice depends on the medicine, dose, timing and reason it is needed.

## Who is this page for?

This page is for people in the UK who want a plain-English overview of Medicines in pregnancy and breastfeeding, including when to seek help and what NHS care usually involves. It explains general information, not what is wrong with you personally.

## Who should skip this page?

Skip this page if you need a diagnosis, a prescription, or emergency care. It cannot replace a GP, pharmacist, NHS 111 or 999. If you are in immediate danger, call 999; for urgent advice that is not life-threatening, call 111 in England, Scotland or Wales, or use your GP out-of-hours service in Northern Ireland.

On this page 3 sections

## Key facts about medicines in pregnancy and breastfeeding

- Tell every prescriber, dentist and pharmacist about pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- "Natural" and herbal products are not automatically safe.
- Pre-pregnancy medicine review is important for long-term conditions.

## Before taking anything

Check prescription medicines, painkillers, cold remedies, supplements, creams and herbal products. Read the current leaflet, but seek professional advice when benefits and risks are complex.

## Long-term conditions

Good control of asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, mental illness and other conditions is important in pregnancy. Arrange a medication review before conception when possible and early in pregnancy otherwise.

## Breastfeeding

Suitability depends on the medicine and baby’s age and health. Tell the adviser if the baby was premature or unwell and watch for any monitoring instructions.

## ! Important safety information for medicines in pregnancy and breastfeeding

Seek urgent medical advice after an overdose, accidental exposure to a high-risk medicine, severe allergic reaction, serious side effect or worsening long-term condition. Do not delay emergency treatment because of pregnancy; tell the emergency team you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

## Common questions about medicines in pregnancy and breastfeeding

Can I take paracetamol during pregnancy? Paracetamol is commonly used when needed at the recommended dose, but check with a pharmacist or maternity professional if unsure or needing it repeatedly. Should I stop antidepressants when pregnant? Do not stop suddenly. Discuss benefits, risks and alternatives with the prescriber because relapse and withdrawal can be harmful. Do medicines pass into breast milk? Some pass in small amounts. Many are compatible with breastfeeding, while others need adjustment or monitoring; check the individual medicine.

## Sources

- [NHS — Medicines in pregnancy](https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/medicines/)
- [NHS — Breastfeeding and medicines](https://www.nhs.uk/baby/breastfeeding-and-bottle-feeding/breastfeeding-and-lifestyle/medicines/)