Throughout pregnancy, expectant mothers cannot arbitrarily use medications when experiencing a cough. Therefore, using cough drops is one of the optimal choices for many pregnant women. Let’s explore with AVAKids whether pregnant women should use cough drops and which cough drop brands are safe!
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1. What are cough drops? Main ingredients in cough drops
Cough drops are medicated lozenges used to treat coughs and are shaped like candy. They can support sterilization, help reduce symptoms of coughs, sore throats, and colds, and are often sold over-the-counter in pharmacies and convenience stores.
Typically, these lozenges are widely used to relieve coughs. However, they are also beneficial in soothing runny noses, dry mouth, sore throats, and even colds.
See more of the most effective cough drop products available today.
Benzocaine
Benzocaine is a medication that numbs a specific area and is often present in over-the-counter pain relievers. In cough drops, benzocaine numbs the throat, helping to reduce pain. Benzocaine doesn’t enter the bloodstream, so it’s relatively safe for pregnant women.
Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus is a natural antiseptic that helps kill bacteria and expectorate phlegm. Cough drops contain only a very small amount of eucalyptus oil, so they are quite safe, and mothers can be completely assured when using cough drops containing this ingredient.
Pectin: Pectin is abundant in fruit-flavored cough drops. This substance is commonly used in food as a binding agent, especially in jams and jellies. Pectin has anti-inflammatory properties and is quite safe for pregnant women.
Zinc Gluconate Glycine: Supplementing with a large amount of zinc gluconate glycine can boost the body’s immune system and quickly reduce cold symptoms. However, you should only take 2-3 lozenges containing this ingredient per day, as pregnant women are advised not to consume more than 40mg of zinc daily (each lozenge contains 13mg of zinc).
Menthol: Menthol is often found in peppermint oil cough drops and helps to clear nasal congestion. However, the product is not recommended for pregnant women because its safety has not been verified.
Dextromethorphan: Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant. Some cough drops contain this ingredient, helping to reduce persistent coughs and itchy throats. However, some recent studies suggest that this substance may cause birth defects, so pregnant women should not use cough drops containing dextromethorphan.
See also: What should pregnant women drink? 13 suggested drinks for pregnant women
[Product Box – Dr. Maya Gold Fermented Lemon Balm Oil]
2. Causes of coughing during pregnancy
* Changing weather: Respiratory inflammation, bronchitis, and sore throats leading to coughs due to changing weather are unavoidable. Therefore, pregnant women are more susceptible to respiratory illnesses that cause coughs, including persistent coughs.
* Fetal development: The growing uterus puts pressure on the abdomen, which can cause acid reflux in pregnant women. Stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus causes irritation, leading to a dry or productive cough.
* Hormonal changes: Pregnancy is the period when women experience the most significant hormonal changes. This makes them more susceptible to respiratory infections, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe coughs.
* Weakened immune system: Pregnant women often have weaker bodies and compromised immune systems. As a result, numerous bacteria and viruses can easily enter the body, causing cough and flu symptoms.
* Sensitivity to external factors: Women undergo significant bodily changes during pregnancy. Therefore, pollution, dust, and changing weather can all contribute to coughing in pregnant women.
[Product Box – Kentek Prosbee Honey Syrup]
3. Safe and effective cough drops for pregnant women
The list below is taken from the most searched cough drops for pregnant women on Google, updated in September 2024 and subject to change over time.
3.1. Bao Thanh Cough Drops
* Brand: Vietnam
* Made in: Vietnam
* Price: 11,000 VND/blister – 220,000 VND/box of 100 lozenges (Updated September 2024).
This is a product of Hoa Linh Pharmaceutical Company. Bao Thanh cough drops are researched and manufactured in Vietnam to suit Vietnamese people, with ingredients including natural herbs used to effectively nourish the lungs, relieve coughs, and dissolve phlegm.
The product is a perfect combination of various herbs. Among them, honey and o mai (preserved plums) are the two main ingredients that help nourish the lungs, clear phlegm, and treat coughs and colds very effectively. In addition, Bao Thanh cough drops are also supplemented with natural ingredients such as ginger, licorice, etc.
However, pregnant women should note to use the correct dosage to ensure their health and safety. If any symptoms or side effects occur, contact the nearest medical facility immediately.
Key features:
* Bao Thanh cough drops are commonly used to treat colds, flu, dry coughs, and productive coughs.
* In particular, the cough drops contain ingredients such as schisandra, poria, ginseng leaves, loquat leaves, and trichosanthes seed, which are beneficial for health.
[Image: Bao Thanh Cough Drops]
3.2. Eugica Cough Drops
* Brand: Thailand
* Made in: Vietnam
* Price: Approximately 60,000 VND/box of 100 lozenges (Updated September 2024).
Eugica cough drops from Thailand help relieve cough symptoms, sore throats, and disinfect the respiratory tract. In addition, Eugica cough drops are also used in cases of coughs due to colds and are incorporated into the treatment of respiratory infections.
In addition to peppermint essence, Eugica cough drops also contain essences of ginger, tần dày lá (Vietnamese balm), and eucalyptus, so they have antibacterial properties, warm the throat, and soothe coughs. The product is made from benign ingredients, so Eugica cough drops are entirely safe for pregnant women.
Key features:
* Eugica cough drops help soothe coughs, warm the respiratory tract, and can reduce hoarseness and sore throats.
* These cough drops also help users recover from symptoms of shortness of breath, tonsillitis, and sore throats.
* The peppermint essence in the cough drops helps improve alertness while working.
[Image: Eugica Cough Drops]
3.3. Prospan Cough Drops
* Brand: Germany
* Made in: Germany
* Price: Approximately 53,000 VND/box of 2 blisters x 10 lozenges (Updated September 2024).
Prospan is a herbal cough drop containing dry ivy leaf extract. The product is imported in its original packaging from Germany and is FDA-approved as safe for health. Therefore, pregnant women can safely use it during pregnancy.
Prospan is used in cases of acute respiratory inflammation accompanied by coughs such as loosening phlegm, coughs, itchy and sore throats, sore throats, etc., or to treat symptoms in chronic bronchitis. The lozenges have a pleasant orange and peppermint flavor that helps dissolve phlegm in the throat.
Key features:
* Prospan cough drops have antispasmodic, mucolytic, and cough-relieving functions.
* The lozenges are soft, do not irritate the tongue, soothe the throat, and do not damage the tongue or oral cavity.
* Optimal cough treatment effectiveness: Helps effectively soothe coughs.
* Suitable for all ages: From children 6 years and older, adults, the elderly, office workers, people who frequently travel, etc.
* Safe for health: Sugar-free, alcohol-free, and free of artificial colors. Safe for people with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and those on a diet.
* Mild sweet orange-peppermint flavor: Provides a pleasant, refreshing sensation when used.
[Image: Prospan Cough Drops]
3.4. Vitaprolis Lozenges Cough Drops
* Brand: France
* Made in: France
* Price: Approximately 117,000 VND/box of 2 blisters (Updated September 2024).
From a French brand, Vitaprolis Lozenges cough drops help reduce common coughs, persistent coughs, sore throats, and help clear the throat.
In addition, this product is also used to prevent symptoms of throat and mouth infections. Vitaprolis Lozenges cough drops are proven safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Key features:
* Vitaprolis Lozenges cough drops help limit coughing and reduce inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.
* These cough drops are suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
* The product belongs to the reputable Eric Favre Wellness brand and is made in France.
[Image: Vitaprolis Lozenges Cough Drops]
3.5. Thymotab Tilman Cough Drops
* Brand: Belgium
* Made in: Belgium
* Price: Approximately 200,000 VND/box of 2 blisters x 12 lozenges (Updated September 2024).
The Thymotab Tilman brand is produced by Tilmansa – Belgium. The product contains familiar benign ingredients such as eucalyptus oil, wild chamomile extract, thyme, etc., which are safe for pregnant women.
These ingredients are combined in perfect proportions to help loosen phlegm, soothe sore throats, reduce hoarseness and loss of voice, and boost the body’s immune system to fight colds. Pregnant women can take 1 Thymotab lozenge at a time, up to 4 lozenges/day.
Key features:
* Thymotab Herbal Cough Drops help loosen phlegm, soothe sore throats, reduce hoarseness and loss of voice.
* Boosts the immune system, helping to maintain the body’s natural defense mechanisms against colds.
[Image: Thymotabs Cough Drops]
5. Precautions when using cough drops during the first 3 months of pregnancy
* Choose sugar-free lozenges if you have gestational diabetes.
* Carefully read the ingredients, avoiding any that may cause allergies.
* Check the expiration date carefully. Expired cough drops will not only lose their effectiveness but may also have an altered, unpleasant taste.
* Consult your doctor before using any type of cough drop, as they may inhibit mucus production in the mucous membranes, leading to discomfort.
* These products should not be used for extended periods or continuously. In particular, avoid using cough drops daily or making it a habit.
* Most cough drops are only functional foods that help alleviate symptoms but do not completely eliminate the root cause of the illness. Therefore, if you have a persistent cough or sore throat, consult a specialist for safe treatment options.
* Currently, many different types of cough and sore throat lozenges are widely distributed throughout the country. To ensure safety and high-quality products that do not pose a risk to you…
* Many different types of sore throat lozenges are widely distributed nationwide. However, choose reputable pharmacies to ensure you buy high-quality products that are safe and do not endanger consumer health, especially for pregnant women.
[Product Box – Herbland Healthza Olis]
6. Some drug-free cough remedies for pregnant women
* Eliminate throat bacteria that cause inflammation and help expectorate phlegm by gargling with saline solution 3 times a day.
* Drink plenty of water to prevent itchy, dry, and uncomfortable throats.
* Drink honey tea to help kill bacteria and reduce itching and sore throats.
* Use natural ingredients such as Vietnamese balm, fresh ginger, garlic, honey, kumquat, etc., to reduce phlegm and coughs.
* Prioritize throat sprays to keep the throat clean and reduce coughing.
[Image: Healthza Olis Throat Spray]
See also:
* 15 tips to reduce morning sickness for pregnant women effectively and safely
* How to treat coughs for pregnant women with natural remedies that are gentle and effective quickly
* Is it dangerous to swallow chewing gum? Consequences and how to handle it
Cough drops help reduce symptoms of coughs, sore throats, and colds. However, mothers must carefully research ingredients to avoid in cough drops to ensure safety for both mother and baby. If you have any questions, please contact hotline 1900.866.874 or visit the website avakids.com (8:00 – 21:30) for answers and purchasing assistance!