The obvious solution is to cease taking any unnecessary medications before trying to conceive, but this isn’t always practical.
Isotretinoin, also known as Accutane (for acne), Coumadin (a blood thinner), tetracycline (for acne or infections), valproic acid (for epilepsy), ACE inhibitors (for hypertension), injectable or preventative drugs such as Imitrex and propranolol (for migraines), anti-malarial drugs such as Plaquenil, or high doses of steroids such as cortisone and prednis (for lupus). However, before discontinuing any recommended medicine, see your doctor.
In small doses, many over-the-counter drugs are safe. However, some NSAIDS, such as Motrin, Aleve, or any medicine containing ibuprofen, can interfere with ovulation and make the lining of your uterus less conducive to implantation. If you’re trying to conceive, you should only take NSAIDS while you’re menstruating, with the exception of Tylenol, which can be taken at any time.
Before taking any drug, it is recommended to consult with your doctor. For pregnant women, many drugs offer safer alternatives. Heparin, for example, is a safe anticoagulant for deep vein thrombosis, whereas Coumadin is harmful since it enters the placenta. Dilantin carries hazards, although it is substantially safer than valproic acid if you need an anticonvulsant for epilepsy. Before starting a pregnancy, talk to your obstetrician about these issues.
FAQ
- What medications can affect fertility?
Some of the most common medicines that affect fertility in women are:
Meloxicam, diclofenac or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). …
Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). …
Antipsychotics (neuroleptic medicines). …
Thyroid medication. …
Spironolactone, a diuretic used to treat swelling (oedema). - Can you take ibuprofen while trying to conceive?
Fertility and ibuprofen
Taking ibuprofen for pain relief on a regular basis, such as when you have a headache, is unlikely to harm your fertility. If you’re trying to get pregnant, however, it’s best not to take ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules, or liquid for more than a week. - Can I take painkillers when trying to conceive?
Ibuprofen-containing over-the-counter pain relievers (such as Nurofen and Advil) have been shown in two recent studies to reduce male fertility and disrupt the development of the ovaries in female foetuses.
- Is it safe to take antibiotics while trying to conceive?
Antibiotics Make It Difficult to Conceive. Men who take antibiotics for a long time may experience fertility issues. Antibiotics have an impact on sperm quantity and quality. They may cause a man’s sperm to swim more slowly and reduce the number of sperm he produces.
