Is it safe to take Unisom while pregnant?

Understanding the Safety of Unisom During Pregnancy
As many expectant mothers grapple with sleep disturbances and nausea, the question of whether it is safe to take Unisom, a popular over-the-counter sleep aid, becomes increasingly relevant. Unisom primarily contains doxylamine, an antihistamine that is often used to alleviate insomnia and, in some cases, to treat nausea during pregnancy.
General Safety Profile
According to various medical sources, Unisom is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. Studies have indicated that it does not significantly increase the risk of birth defects, making it a preferable option compared to some alternatives. Major medical organizations, including the FDA and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), endorse its use, citing its long history of safety.
First Trimester Use
In the first trimester, Unisom can be particularly beneficial for managing sleep issues and nausea. Many healthcare providers recommend it as a viable option for pregnant women experiencing these common symptoms. The combination of doxylamine and Vitamin B6 has even been studied and found to be effective for treating morning sickness, which can be a significant concern for many women during early pregnancy.
Caution in Later Trimesters
However, the guidance shifts when considering the second and third trimesters. While Unisom is deemed safe in the first trimester, its use is generally not recommended later in pregnancy. This caution stems from the need to weigh the benefits against potential risks, as the body undergoes various changes that could affect how medications are metabolized.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
Despite the general consensus on the safety of Unisom, it is crucial for pregnant women to consult their healthcare provider before starting any medication. Individual health circumstances can vary widely, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on a woman’s specific situation.
Conclusion
In summary, Unisom is largely viewed as a safe option for managing sleep disturbances and nausea during the early stages of pregnancy. However, as with any medication, it is essential to approach its use with caution and to seek guidance from a healthcare provider to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and baby.

Is Benadryl or Unisom better during pregnancy?

If you are only having trouble sleeping while pregnant, your doctor might recommend Benadryl. Unisom is likely to be recommended for consistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.

Is it OK to take Unisom nightly?

Can I take Unisom® every night? Unisom®, non-prescription sleeping pills, should only be used to relieve occasional sleeplessness. If your sleeplessness lasts for more than two weeks, talk to your doctor. Long-term sleeplessness may be an indication of a serious underlying medical illness.

What sleep aid can I take while pregnant?

Pregnant people can safely take doxylamine, such as Unisom, and diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl, both of which showed no increased risk of congenital abnormalities.

How long can you take Unisom and B6 while pregnant?

You can take Unisom and B6 for as long as you need them to treat morning sickness, which for most people is throughout their first trimester, as morning sickness symptoms tend to decrease after that.

Is it safe to take Unisom every night while pregnant?

If you’re pregnant and struggling with insomnia, you may be wondering if it’s safe to take Unisom. Many healthcare providers consider Unisom to be a safe option for managing sleep troubles during pregnancy. However, it’s always best to consult with your doctor before taking any medication while pregnant.

Can taking Benadryl every night be harmful while pregnant?

Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine that’s considered safe during pregnancy, and is used to treat allergies, allergic reactions, sleep problems, and morning sickness. It’s classified as a “Class B” drug during pregnancy by the FDA, meaning animal studies show it doesn’t cause harm to a fetus.

What to take when you can’t sleep pregnant?

Taking melatonin supplements helps some people with sleep difficulties fall asleep more easily. Providers may suggest melatonin supplements during pregnancy for people who continue having trouble falling asleep even after trying non-medication alternatives.

What is safer, Unisom or melatonin?

Melatonin is likely the safest OTC sleep aid. Excess melatonin is quickly cleared from the body and does not accumulate. Side effects are rare but may include headache, nausea, and vivid dreams.

Does Unisom affect babies?

Some researchers have suggested that babies may be born with congenital disorders if they’re exposed to the active ingredients in Unisom during the first trimester. However, those findings have been criticized as inaccurate and the use of Unisom is generally believed to not increase the risk of birth defects.

How can I stop nausea at night during pregnancy?

Some women experience relief from their nausea and vomiting symptoms from dietary supplements such as ginger and Vitamin B6 (25 mg). The over-the-counter sleeping aid, Doxylamine (Unisom sleep tabs, 12.5 mg in the morning and evening and 25 mg at bedtime), has also been known to help with nausea and vomiting.