Tips on medication for COVID-19 | How should pregnant women take medication when infected with COVID-19?

Although the peak of the transmission of the novel coronavirus Omicron variant has passed, we still cannot take it lightly, especially for pregnant women, who should be more cautious when using antiviral drugs. So, if infection occurs during pregnancy, how should medication be used?

Choice of drug treatment

Symptoms of pregnant women infected with the Omicron variant include fever, muscle aches, cough, fatigue, loss of smell and taste, diarrhea, sore throat and myalgia, which are similar to those of ordinary people. Through active symptomatic treatment and self-care, most symptoms can be gradually relieved within 3 to 5 days after infection. If pregnant mothers have obvious symptoms after infection, they can use some drugs in moderation under the guidance of a doctor. Especially pregnant women in the middle and late stages of pregnancy should take medication according to the doctor's advice.

fever

Unless the patient has a high fever or feels severe discomfort, there is no need to rush to use antipyretics. If the body temperature is not higher than 38.5℃ and the individual does not feel obvious discomfort, physical methods such as heat dissipation patches and warm water wiping can be considered to help reduce the fever; pregnant women with a body temperature exceeding 38.5℃, or above 38℃ with obvious discomfort, can take medication to assist in reducing fever. Acetaminophen is the first choice of antipyretic during pregnancy. However, it should be noted that if the liver function of pregnant women is abnormal, the potential hepatotoxicity of acetaminophen should be considered. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen should be avoided as much as possible during pregnancy.

cough

If the condition is not particularly serious, there is no need to take cough medicine.

If the coughing symptoms are very severe, even causing breathing difficulties, or affecting normal sleep and rest, you should go to the hospital in time for treatment and have a chest CT scan if necessary. You can use relatively safe drugs under the guidance of a doctor (note: because the drugs used to suppress coughs and reduce phlegm are different). It should be reminded that cough suppressants such as guaifenesin and dextromethorphan are prohibited in early pregnancy.

Nasal congestion

You can put warm water under your nose and use the steam from the hot water to relieve nasal congestion. You can also use saline nasal spray or sea salt water nasal spray to rinse your nasal cavity to relieve nasal congestion.

diarrhea

Diarrhea during pregnancy is dangerous because excessive intestinal peristalsis may stimulate uterine contractions and induce miscarriage or premature birth, so it should be taken seriously. Montmorillonite powder can relieve diarrhea symptoms. For patients with severe diarrhea, oral rehydration salts (III) can be used. At the same time, attention should be paid to whether there are uterine contractions and vaginal bleeding and discharge. If the above symptoms occur, medical treatment should be sought promptly.

Sore throat and general muscle aches

Choose acetaminophen, which can both reduce fever and relieve pain; remember to drink plenty of water; you can also listen to light music to divert your attention and relax.

At present, influenza A is at its peak, and the new coronavirus may also become popular again. For respiratory infectious diseases, pregnant mothers should still strengthen preventive measures in their daily lives to reduce the risk of infection. Pay attention to maintaining social distance, wear masks, wash hands frequently, open windows frequently, and maintain good ventilation.