Antiviral drugs for pregnant women 1. What antiviral drugs can be taken during pregnancy? Antiviral drugs during pregnancy

The expectant mother is more susceptible to many infectious diseases than others. This is primarily due to the fact that while waiting for the baby, her immunity is significantly reduced. At the same time, everyone knows that taking any medications during pregnancy can pose a significant threat to the health of the pregnant child. Therefore, many women choose to refuse medications when they get sick with colds, flu and other viral diseases. But is this right? And perhaps there is medicines which can be taken by the expectant mother? Let's consider whether drug therapy is necessary in case of a viral disease, and what antiviral drugs are available for pregnant women.

Should I take antiviral medications during pregnancy?

If a woman has caught a common cold, it is quite possible to do without antiviral drugs. In such a situation, medications for symptomatic treatment, traditional medicine methods and bed rest will come to the rescue. Of course, all this should be prescribed by a doctor after an examination and the necessary research.

But what to do if the expectant mother falls ill with a more serious illness, such as the flu or herpes? Is it necessary to take antiviral medications during pregnancy in this case? Experts note that serious viral diseases can cause many complications during pregnancy and fetal development. The main ones are the following conditions and pathologies:

miscarriage or premature birth;
damage to the placenta;
antenatal effusion amniotic fluid;
chorioamnionitis – infection of the membranes of the fetus and amniotic fluid;
the formation of congenital anomalies of fetal development, such as hydrocephalus (dropsy of the brain);
congenital pneumonia in a child;
eye damage in a child - retinal atrophy, cataracts;
sepsis – blood poisoning in a child;
intrauterine fetal death.

As can be seen from the above, many viral diseases require mandatory treatment. Of course, only a doctor can prescribe antiviral drugs during pregnancy. Depending on the disease, the course of pregnancy, and the general condition of the woman, the doctor will select the necessary drug therapy. He will also prescribe the dosage of medications and the duration of treatment. So what antiviral drugs can pregnant women take?

What antiviral drugs can pregnant women use?

Experts note that any medications, including antivirals, are contraindicated for pregnant women in the first trimester. During this period, they are prescribed only as a last resort. This is due to the fact that in the first 10-12 weeks the rudiments of all organs and systems of the fetus are formed. And exposure to chemicals can contribute to the appearance of defects and pathologies in the development of a child.

When asked what antiviral drugs can be used for pregnant women, doctors most often mention Viferon, Anaferon and Oscillococcinum.

Viferon

The most commonly prescribed antiviral during pregnancy is Viferon. This medicine belongs to the group of interferons and is available in the form of rectal suppositories, ointments and gels. Viferon has an antiviral, antichlamydial effect, and is active against certain types of bacteria. In addition, it stimulates the penetration of immune cells into the lesion inflammatory process, protecting the body from bacterial infection. This antiviral is prescribed in the treatment of rubella, herpes, and cytomegalovirus. Viferon is also recommended to be taken for the prevention of diseases during epidemics.

Complex therapy with the use of this antiviral during pregnancy leads to relief of the acute course of the disease and reduces the frequency of exacerbations of bacterial and viral infections. Interestingly, the active substance of Viferon, interferon, begins to act even before the moment when the human immune system recognizes viruses that penetrate the mucous membrane.

Anaferon

Another frequently prescribed antiviral drug during pregnancy is Anaferon. The instructions for Anaferon indicate that it is not recommended to take it either during pregnancy or lactation. However, many doctors consider it quite safe for expectant mothers. Anaferon belongs to homeopathic immunomodulatory agents that normalize the functioning of the human immune system. Among the indications for the use of this antiviral during pregnancy are the following:

treatment and prevention of acute respiratory viral infections, acute respiratory infections and influenza;
treatment and prevention of complications of viral infections;
treatment of bacterial diseases as part of complex therapy;
dysfunction of the immune system.

A side effect of Anaferon is rare, but still happens, the development of allergic reactions of the body. This is especially true for expectant mothers, since during the period of bearing a baby, a woman’s sensitivity to many substances sharply increases.

Oscillococcinum

Many doctors note that Oscillococcinum can be used at any stage of pregnancy for the treatment and prevention of viral diseases. This is a homeopathic medicine developed based on the extract of the heart and liver of the Barbary duck, which is one of the carriers of influenza viruses. This antiviral drug is prescribed to reduce the severity and duration of viral infections in pregnant women. At the same time, the woman’s general condition improves, the temperature decreases, and the symptoms of the disease are alleviated.

Any problem with the health of a pregnant woman should be considered through the prism of future motherhood, namely, taking into account the effect of drugs on the fetus. It is very important for first-time workers to be able to competently advise customers on medications acceptable during pregnancy. On the eve of the season of respiratory infections, we answer the most popular questions related to the treatment of ARVI in expectant mothers.

What are the dangers of colds and flu in pregnant women?

Respiratory infections pose two threats. Firstly, they may be accompanied by fever, which can lead to defects in fetal development. And secondly, ARVI and influenza can lead to the development of complications. During pregnancy, a number of changes occur in the immune response, as well as in the functioning of the heart and lungs, making the mother's body especially vulnerable. Therefore, colds and flu in expectant mothers are much more severe than in non-pregnant women and are often complicated by bacterial infections, including bronchitis and pneumonia.

The World Health Organization has included pregnant women at risk of developing severe and/or complicated influenza. It has been proven that pregnant women with the flu require hospitalization 4 times more often than non-pregnant women. Among patients in the third trimester, 8% require hospitalization in intensive care units.

Timely vaccination can prevent infection with the influenza virus during pregnancy. If infection has already occurred, the woman needs to start treatment as early as possible.

Is it necessary to bring down a high temperature during pregnancy and what medications can be used?

It is important to manage fever in pregnant women promptly because heat may have a negative effect on pregnancy. It is especially dangerous in the first 12 weeks, when the formation of all organs and systems occurs. Hyperthermia in pregnant women during the first trimester doubles the risk of developing neural tube defects (future brain and spinal cord defects) and may also be associated with other birth defects and adverse baby outcomes.

It is not known for certain which temperature exceeding the greatest danger. Thus, data from a cohort study involving more than 77 thousand women showed that the incidence of malformations was approximately the same among those who noted a fever below 39 and above 39 degrees in the first trimester.

The drug of choice for reducing fever is paracetamol, which is approved for use throughout pregnancy. In addition, ibuprofen is used as an antipyretic and analgesic in the first and second trimesters. Multivitamins containing folic acid can reduce the risk of developmental defects due to hyperthermia.

How to reduce a sore throat? What antiseptics can I take?

During pregnancy, it is allowed to use a number of antiseptics for sore throats, so it is not necessary to endure sore throat and other unpleasant symptoms during this period. Medications that expectant mothers can take include:

ambazon, which has an antimicrobial effect against streptococci, daily dose 4–5 tablets 0.04–0.05 g;
combination lysozyme+pyridoxine, exhibits an antiseptic effect against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi and viruses. Vitamin B6 in its composition has a protective effect on the oral mucosa. Prescribe 2 tablets 3-4 times a day.

In addition, warm drinks, which are indicated in unlimited but reasonable quantities, help reduce sore throat.

Can pregnant women take any expectorant medications?

Therapists and obstetricians-gynecologists recommend that pregnant women refrain from taking expectorant medications if possible. The vast majority of drugs in this group are prohibited for use during pregnancy, including herbal remedies, which are often considered “safe” by consumers. In fact, plantain syrup, preparations based on thyme and thyme extract, and other popular herbal remedies are contraindicated for pregnant women.

In the same time ambroxol is still approved for use in the second and third trimesters with the note “with caution”. The same goes for bromhexine- it is prescribed, but only after a thorough assessment of the benefit/risk ratio, and only the attending physician can carry it out. Therefore, primary care providers who advise pregnant women with requests for expectorant medications should limit themselves to insistent advice to consult a doctor. And the only recommendation that should be given in such situations is to drink warm drinks and sufficiently humidify the air in the room.

What can a pregnant woman take for a debilitating dry cough?

Antitussive drugs, like mucolytics, are prohibited from taking during pregnancy at all or are allowed under the supervision of a doctor after assessing the risks and benefits. Thus, a popular centrally acting antitussive butamirate It is allowed to take only in the II and III trimesters and only after consultation with a doctor. Use with caution during pregnancy and the drug has a peripheral effect. prenoxdiazine. Thus, when counseling a pregnant woman with a dry cough, she should be advised to immediately visit a doctor.

Are homeopathic medicines allowed during pregnancy?

Indeed, homeopathic medicines, including those that exhibit an antiviral effect, are, as a rule, not contraindicated for use during pregnancy. However, the first-time consumer should take into account that there are no clinical studies confirming the safety of these drugs in pregnant women, so manufacturers often indicate in the instructions the need to balance risk and benefit. Sometimes there are notes about the possibility of using the drug after consultation with a doctor.

Is it possible to be treated during pregnancy with infusions, decoctions of medicinal herbs or herbal teas?

Despite their natural origin, not all preparations based on medicinal plants, including herbal teas, are safe during pregnancy. Herbs may contain active substances that negatively affect the development of the fetus or increase the tone of the uterus. Herbs can cause miscarriage or stimulate premature labor. Medicinal plants that are unsafe during pregnancy include:

chamomile - can promote uterine contractions;
Licorice root - may contribute to increased risk premature birth;
laxative herbal teas based on senna and other plants - active intestinal motility can stimulate the contractile activity of the uterus;
common twig - stimulates the production of estrogen, may increase the risk of miscarriage;
echinacea - activates the synthesis of oxytocin; aloe vera - stimulates the contractile activity of the uterus;
calendula - has an abortifacient effect and many others.

However, there are also medicinal plants that have been proven safe during pregnancy. Among them :

raspberry leaves;
peppermint leaves;
plantain oval seed shell;
garlic.

Since the list of medicinal plants that are unsafe during pregnancy is quite large, it is still better to take herbal medicines during this period after consulting with your doctor.

Are any antiviral drugs allowed during pregnancy?

The treatment regimen for influenza in pregnant women includes antiviral drugs from the group of neuraminidase inhibitors. They are active against influenza A and B viruses, and their effectiveness has been demonstrated in numerous clinical studies. Drugs in this group disrupt the ability of viral particles to penetrate into cells, which leads to localization of infection in the body, alleviation of the condition and reduction of the likelihood of complications. According to international and Russian recommendations, neuraminidase inhibitors are the drugs of choice for influenza, including during pregnancy. Their effectiveness is highest when taken within the first 48 hours after the onset of the disease, so when the first flu symptoms appear, it is very important to consult a doctor and begin treatment. Let us remind you that neuraminidase inhibitors are prescription drugs ( also in this case it is necessary to make sure that the patient has the flu and not ARVI - approx. ed.).

How to boost immunity during pregnancy?

The following help increase the body's defense against respiratory infections during pregnancy:

a balanced diet that compensates for a woman’s needs for nutrients, vitamins, microelements;
healthy sleep;
laughter - helps to activate the immune response;
taking probiotics, which normalize the composition of the intestinal flora, which helps reduce the risk of respiratory infections and reduce the severity of cold symptoms;
Taking a multivitamin supplement containing vitamin D, which helps relieve cold symptoms and reduce the incidence of infection.

In addition, to increase the immune response, the doctor may prescribe interferon alfa-2b drugs - intranasal or rectal ( There may be restrictions on the duration of pregnancy, for example, some of them are prescribed only after 14 weeks - approx. ed.).

How to make breathing easier during nasal congestion in a pregnant woman? Is it possible to use vasoconstrictor drops?

Unfortunately, nasal decongestants are contraindicated during pregnancy. The procedure of choice is irrigation of the nasal cavity with solutions of sodium chloride or sea water. They help clear the nasal passages of mucus and even viruses and make breathing easier. Drugs in this group are safe and have no side effects.

Is it possible for a pregnant woman to apply mustard plasters and pepper plaster?

Despite the fact that both mustard plasters and pepper plaster act externally and do not affect the development of the fetus, they are potentially dangerous for pregnancy. Heat treatments can increase uterine contractility, which is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage or premature birth. In addition, increased microcirculation, which occurs under the influence of mustard plasters or pepper patches, can change uteroplacental blood flow, which is also undesirable. The greatest danger is posed by thermal procedures in the first and last trimester of pregnancy - in the first they increase the risk of miscarriage, in the last - premature birth.

What to do if a pregnant woman comes with a prescription for a drug that is contraindicated for use in pregnant women?

Prescribing a drug to a pregnant woman that is contraindicated during pregnancy is not among the grounds for invalidating the prescription. It is known that in practice, some doctors take responsibility by prescribing drugs to pregnant women that are contraindicated during pregnancy. In this situation, it is appropriate for the chief captain to contact the doctor and make sure that he really prescribed a specific drug for the pregnant woman, and then dispense the drug.

Sources

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Lipatov I. S. et al. Influenza infection and pregnancy: the problem of specific prevention // Issues of gynecology, obstetrics and perinatology, 2015. T. 14. No. 1. pp. 57–63.
Gholami F. et al. Onset of labor in post-term pregnancy by chamomile //Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal. 2016; 18 (11).
Ernst E. Herbal medicinal products during pregnancy: are they safe? //BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology. 2002; 109(3):227–235.
Herbs and Pregnancy. American Pregnancy Association. URL: http://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/herbs-and-pregnancy/. Date of access: 09.09.2018.
Kalimatova D. M., Shatunova E. P. Optimization of management of pregnant women with influenza A H1N1 based on assessment of the levels of markers of endothelial dysfunction // Problems of medicine in modern conditions / Collection of scientific papers based on the results, 2010. T. 201. No. 2. P. 15.
Guidelines on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of influenza in pregnant women, 2014.
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A pregnant woman should carefully monitor her own health, since immunity is seriously reduced during pregnancy. That is why the risk of contracting colds, flu and other viral diseases is quite high.

Conventional medications for treatment are prohibited, so you need to know which antiviral drugs are allowed during pregnancy in order not to harm the fetus and effectively cope with the disease.

What antiviral drug can pregnant women use?

For mild cases of the disease, taking pills is not recommended at all. It will be enough to provide bed rest and apply traditional medicine recipes. If the disease is more complex, the doctor prescribes antiviral drugs.

Taking some medications leads to serious consequences, for example, damage to the placenta, infection of the amniotic fluid, the formation of fetal abnormalities, etc.

That is why the choice of a suitable remedy should be approached as responsibly as possible and only together with a doctor.

Another important point is that in the first trimester of pregnancy, taking antiviral drugs is prohibited, since at this time the rudiments of the child’s organs and systems are formed. It should be said that it is important to follow the dosage indicated in the instructions, but more often required amount indicated by the doctor, taking into account the individual parameters of the body.

Now let's move on to the list of approved drugs:

Viferon. This remedy is sold in the form of suppositories, ointments and gels. It has antiviral, antibacterial and antichlamydial effects. It also promotes the penetration of immune cells into the site of inflammation, which protects the body from bacterial infection. The doctor prescribes Viferon during pregnancy if rubella, herpes and cytomegalovirus are diagnosed. During an epidemic, this medicine is prescribed as a prophylaxis, and it is worth noting that the active substance begins its work even before the immune system detects the penetration of viruses. Individual intolerance is possible, but it occurs extremely rarely;
Kipferon. Pregnant women also use this type of suppository, which has an antiviral effect. Unlike Viferon, the dosage of the active substance is much higher, so this medicine is prescribed only in serious cases, for example, influenza or acute intestinal infection. This type of suppository is allowed only starting from the third trimester, when the baby’s organs and systems are formed;
Anaferon. During pregnancy, this drug is often prescribed, even though the instructions indicate that it is included in the category of dangerous drugs. Doctors have a different opinion and prescribe this homeopathic immunomodulatory remedy to expectant mothers without fear. The main purpose of the drug is to normalize the functioning of the immune system. Anaferon is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of acute respiratory viral infections, acute respiratory infections and influenza, for complications of viral infections and for problems with immunity. TO side effects, which, by the way, occur extremely rarely, include the development of an allergic reaction;
Oscillococcinum. This medicine is approved at any stage of pregnancy, both for treatment and as a preventative measure. The drug belongs to the homeopathic group, and contains extracts of the heart and liver of Barbary duck. The doctor prescribes Oscillococcinum to reduce the severity and duration of viral infections. It helps to lower the temperature, reduce the manifestation of other symptoms, and also improve the general condition of the woman. The dosage is determined by the doctor. Contraindication is individual intolerance;
Arbidol. To boost immunity and fight viruses, use this remedy. It is prescribed in all trimesters of pregnancy, but this should only be done by a doctor;
Doctor Mom. Pregnancy is a period when coughing causes a lot of discomfort, and without treatment it leads to more serious consequences. If the symptom is mild, then medications are not recommended. Doctor Mom has a complex effect on the body: antibacterial, antifungal, antispasmodic and antipyretic. This remedy helps to liquefy and remove mucus. Doctor MOM is sold in several forms: ointment, syrup, pencil and lozenges;
Acycloriv. The herpes virus is dangerous because it can be transmitted to the fetus, so it should be dealt with at the first manifestations. The medicine is produced in the form of ointments, tablets, gel and ampoules for intravenous administration. The ointment is applied exclusively to the affected areas.

Paracetamol is often prescribed as an antipyretic, but it must be in its pure form. The dosage is prescribed exclusively by the doctor. To reduce the temperature, it is possible to use Panadol, a medicine that has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Another unpleasant symptom is a runny nose, to combat which pregnant women are also not allowed to use all remedies. Aquamaris drops, whose main component is sea water, are considered safe. To get rid of phlegm from a runny nose, use Pinosol.

Bromhexine is an approved cough suppressant, as it has an expectorant effect and contains mainly plant extracts. Another approved cough remedy is Flavemed, which has an expectorant and mucoltic effect. It is important to note that it cannot be used in the first trimester.

When choosing medicines, it is important to pay attention to the fact that the packaging indicates that the drug is included in category A, that is, it does not pose any danger.

Folk antiviral remedies during pregnancy

Women in position give preference folk recipes, which include natural ingredients with a minimal list of contraindications and side effects.

During pregnancy, the following drugs are allowed:

Sage. Replace prohibited antiviral drugs with sage tincture, which is used for rinsing. To prepare the product you need to take 1 tbsp. spoon of herbs and pour 0.5 liters of hot water over it. Leave to infuse for half an hour, and then gargle and rinse;
Radish. If you have a cold while pregnant, consume this root vegetable for a quick recovery. Grind the radish on a fine grater and add a little honey. Take a few spoons of the product per day with tea;
Cranberry. To avoid taking antiviral drugs during pregnancy during colds, ARVI, acute respiratory infections and flu, use this berry. Crush the cranberries with a fork and add sugar or honey. You need to eat several tablespoons per day;
Potato. Use boiled root vegetables for inhalation. You can also add chamomile, sage and eucalyptus.

Pregnancy is the most crucial period in a woman’s life, so it is important to take your health more than seriously. Choose antiviral drugs exclusively with your doctor to avoid any health problems. Be sure to follow the dosage.

After conception, a woman’s body becomes more vulnerable to the adverse effects of various factors. environment. What antiviral medications can pregnant women take? In what cases is taking these drugs necessary, and when can they be avoided? Are there any contraindications and side effects? These questions are asked by every woman who is expecting the birth of a baby. Let's look at the answers to them later in the article.

What kind of medicines

Antiviral drugs for pregnant women are a special group of drugs whose action is aimed at destroying viruses.

It is not recommended to take them without a doctor's prescription while pregnant. Some of them provide negative impact on the intrauterine formation of the fetus.

Medicines can either act directly on the viral forms that have entered the body or stimulate the immune system.

To select the correct medication, a pregnant woman must first undergo a comprehensive examination and consultation with a doctor.

In what cases are they prescribed?

These medications are prescribed during pregnancy to treat respiratory and viral infections. As a rule, this group of drugs is used to treat diseases such as:

and etc.

They are not suitable for the treatment of diseases from this list. Antiviral drugs have a narrow focus of action.

Before starting treatment you must undergo comprehensive diagnostics to make an accurate diagnosis.

Kinds

Modern medical science highlights the following types:

antiherpetic - prescribed for various forms of herpes;
anticytomegalovirus – necessary in the treatment of cytomegalovirus;
anti-influenza - prescribed for the treatment of influenza virus. Among them are M2 channel blockers and neuroaminidase inhibitors.
antiretroviral - necessary in the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus;
extended action.

Types of antiviral agents depending on the spectrum of action on the body:

activating the human immune system;
destroying live viral forms in the body.

Not all antiviral drugs can be purchased at a pharmacy without a prescription. Many of them are dispensed solely on medical advice.

Which ones are allowed?

Not all medications in this group can be taken during pregnancy. Antiviral drugs during pregnancy early stages must be taken with extreme caution.

During this period, active formation of the baby’s organs occurs and medications can disrupt the correct formation.

In the first 12 weeks of the perinatal period, the following are allowed:

Viferon;
anaferon;
influferon;
oscillococinum.

Starting from the 4th month of pregnancy, expectant mothers can:

oseltamavir;
zanamivir;
acyclovir.

However, without urgent need, taking them even at later not recommended.

Which ones are prohibited?

Some medications aimed at fighting viruses cannot be taken during the perinatal period. This is due to the fact that the components included in their composition can provoke developmental defects in the child.

During the period of bearing a baby, it is strictly forbidden to take the following medications:

tetracycline;
chloramphenicol;
remantadine;
groprinosin;
streptomycin.

Their active components often cause intrauterine developmental abnormalities in children, and can also cause miscarriage and. They can be taken in exceptional situations when there is no question of continuing the pregnancy.

Only a doctor can choose the appropriate medication for a pregnant woman. You cannot independently determine the means of treatment. If medications are used incorrectly, there is a high risk of complications and developmental pathologies.

Methods of application

Many antiviral drugs must be taken according to a certain schedule. This is related to that. That in the first hours after the appearance of alarming symptoms, a certain dosage of the active component should enter the body.

The drugs can be produced in the form of tablets, drops or suppositories. Each release form contains a certain concentration of the active substance. Therefore, the regimen for taking the same medication, but in different shapes, may differ.

Only a specialist can determine what type and form is needed to treat a particular disease. Changing the dosage or duration of treatment may adversely affect the development of pregnancy.

Why are they dangerous?

Improper use of medications during the perinatal period can cause serious complications. These include:

spontaneous interruption pregnancy;
fetus in the womb;
the appearance of multiple malformations;
intrauterine infection of a child with a viral pathology;
premature;
the beginning of the birth process.

To avoid these complications, you must be very careful in choosing medications and taking them. You cannot self-medicate. When the first symptoms of a viral infection appear in the body, you should consult a doctor.

If side effects begin to occur while taking it, you should immediately stop using this product.

Contraindications

Like any medicine, these drugs have a number of contraindications during pregnancy:

individual intolerance to the ingredients that make up the medication;
lactose intolerance in women;
improper functioning of the liver and.

If a woman is diagnosed with these concomitant pathologies, then taking medications from this group is strictly forbidden. During therapy, a woman may experience deterioration and exacerbation of existing diseases.

Expectant mothers quite often encounter viral infections. This can have an extremely negative impact on intrauterine development child and the course of pregnancy in general.

Antiviral drugs can be taken during pregnancy if the need arises. But this can only be done under the supervision of a doctor. Self-medication during the perinatal period is prohibited.