AboutNigel Simmons Expertise I am happy to answer general questions on medicines and hospital care. If possible, please use approved / chemical names rather than brands which are not internationally recognised.
Like all health professionals I am bound by a duty of care which prevents me giving detailed information about medication or treatment of people other than the questioner.
I will endeavour to help wherever possible or point towards more appropriate advice. If however your question crosses too far into patient confidentiality, I hope you will understand why I cannot answer your question.
Consider.. would you want me to discuss your care with a friend or relative without your knowledge?
Experience Registered as a UK pharmacist in 1982 and have worked in a number of hospital and health management posts around the UK. Formerly Chief Pharmacist for a 440 bed general hospital in Cambridgeshire.
Past/Present clients Previously Sysop on CompuServe UK Professionals forum.
Question HI, my name is Ashley and I have a question about taking pain pills while being pregnant. I would like to know does it cause any damage, such as birth deffects, brain damage etc. How much is too much?
Answer Ashley
The general rule during pregnancy is to avoid all medication if at all possible. That way there is much less likelihood of any problems with the pregnancy or child. If medication is necessary, then this must be on the balance of risk (need for treatment is more urgent than any risk to the child) and should always be done under the supervision of a doctor or midwife.
Drug problems in pregnancy particularly occur in the first and last three months. In early pregnancy there is a risk of deformity, while problems later on will impact on labour and subsequently birth. Drug risks also continue through to breastfeeding as drugs taken by the mother can be detected in breastmilk. Problems can be minor, to significant birth defect and in some cases death of the fertus.
As you have not referred to a particular product I cannot give specific information, but your doctor should be in the best position to advise because s/he will know your full medical history and be monitoring the pregnancy.
