Medication Information Leaflet
Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP) is a common part of pregnancy for many women. It is commonly known as “morning sickness” but the symptoms can occur at any time of the day. These symptoms can be unpleasant and affect your daily activities. It usually occurs within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy (first trimester). However, for some women, it may last longer or even throughout pregnancy.
In most cases, NVP does not need treatment with medication. See a doctor if your symptoms are severe or affecting your daily life.
There are many medications that have shown to be safe to use during pregnancy to treat NVP. The table below lists some of the common medications that may be used. You should take your medications as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.
Medication | How should I take/use this medication? | What are some possible side-effects, and how to manage? |
Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) |
|
|
Diclectin®
(Contains doxylamine and pyridoxine)
|
|
|
Promethazine Teoclate |
|
|
Metoclopramide |
|
|
Ondansetron |
|
|
Medications for nausea and vomiting are to be taken only when necessary. If you have no symptoms, you do not need to take the medication.
Do’s
|
Don’ts
|
Inform your healthcare professional if:
The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.
Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.
Pack the medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.
If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.
This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.
Last updated on May 2022.
This article was last reviewed on Friday, August 19, 2022