Medications for heartburn are safe for pregnant women

The study found no link between heartburn medication and birth defects. But experts still advise pregnant women not to take any medications, if they have a specific need.

Danish scientists have conducted extensive research on the possible impact medicines for heartburn   on the birth of children with birth defects . As it turned out, the number of these drugs birth defects   no effect.

It's about medications belonging to the group of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), including such popular tools as Prilozek (omeprazole), Prevatsid (lansoprazole) and Nexium (esomeprazole). In the US, all of these drugs once sold by prescription. Study participants received them during the 1996-2008 period. However, since Prilozek Prevatsid and entered the free market.

These studies are published in the journal New England Journal of Medicine. Experts recommend physicians to continue the appointment of these drugs for specific indications for pregnant patients, but in the smallest possible quantities. "In general, they are safe, but it takes quite a long time and a long exposure of drugs to see any abnormality in the child, with whom he may have been born - explains Dr. Eva Pressman, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Medical Center of the University of Rochester . - We always recommend to avoid exposure of any medications to women during pregnancy. Especially if we are talking about PPI. There are very few life-threatening disorders in which these medications is necessary. "

But Dr. Michael Katz said that science knows a lot more simple ways to help with heartburn, without resorting to drugs. For example, if you put yourself in a semi-erect position, and will not lie flat, it may help. Heartburn and relieve some simple antacids, do not pose the slightest risk to the fetus.

Pregnancy and Gynecology

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