Clarification on Medication Advice

A question arose about taking ibuprofen in pregnancy. We want to be sure there is no misunderstanding in this recommendation.

In the initial packet of information WeeCare members (PEHP) get, we include the Pregnancy Risk Line phone numbers because they are the best resource for exposures in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Sometimes we are also asked questions about the safety of common medications and in answering, we use information provided us by the PRL since they are the experts.

We do not advocate taking ibuprofen in pregnancy unless prescribed by your doctor. All medications in pregnancy should be cleared with your provider. The Pregnancy Risk Line has said that they feel that acetaminophen (Tylenol for example) is the safest pain reliever/fever reducer in pregnancy when taken as directed but we cannot guarantee safety of any medication and risks/benefits must always be considered. This is the advice we consistently relay to our clients. It is often confusing and complicated generic names like acetaminophen (generic Tylenol, etc) and ibuprofen (generic Advil, etc.) may get mixed up. If you are ever in doubt about advice you receive from us, please call or email so we can clear up any misunderstanding due to unclear or conflicting advice. When in doubt, it is best to follow the advice of your practitioner who knows you best.

We are aware that in some cases the need for a medication outweighs the potential risks that might be involved so we may sometimes say "some doctors are comfortable with..... but that would be up to your provider." For this reason we don't give blanket "never" statements except when the substance is known to cause problems in pregnancy - alcohol, tobacco, street drugs, Accutane, etc.

Anything other than acetaminophen for pain/fever should be prescribed for you by your doctor. Sometimes we come across reliable sources of information that may suggest other medications are probably safe as well, but we do emphasize that anything you take in pregnancy should be reviewed with your provider who knows your situation best. We may tell you we have seen some reliable sources who feel it is probably safe, but again, you should check with the doctor.

If you ever feel you get conflicting information from WeeCare, please let us know so we can clarify and/or better understand the whole situation. We welcome your feedback, questions, and concerns as well as the opportunity to correct and clarify any misunderstanding. Thanks for being part of WeeCare!

Pregnancy Risk Line numbers are: (801) 328-2229 and (800) 822-2229