Normal cases of nausea due to pregnancy do not require treatment, but if the symptoms are severe, you should see a doctor. The doctor may prescribe medication to alleviate discomfort while ensuring safety for the fetus.
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Primperan Medication (Image: flick) |
In the early stages of pregnancy, most women experience “morning sickness.” The most common symptoms include excessive salivation, nausea, and vomiting, which typically begin around a week after the missed period and usually last no longer than three months.
Nausea during pregnancy often occurs in the morning after waking up and after each meal, with little to no vomiting at night. Some women may only experience excessive salivation, while others may feel nauseous without vomiting. Generally, nausea is mild and manageable for pregnant women.
However, some women may vomit persistently throughout the day, and when food is gone, they may vomit bile or even dry heave when their stomach is empty. This can lead to fatigue, weight loss, dehydration, blood thickening, and acidosis, which can sometimes become life-threatening. These cases require intensive treatment in a hospital.
There are various medications available for treating nausea, but if used, it is essential to choose those with the least harm to both mother and child. These medications are typically used in the early stages of pregnancy, so safety is paramount to avoid fetal malformations.
Historically, medications for nausea during pregnancy often contained alkaloids from belladonna (such as Belladonna tincture or Atropine tablets or injections). They act on the parasympathetic nervous system to reduce salivation and decrease gastric and intestinal motility. Side effects may include rapid heartbeat, dilated pupils, flushed face, dry mouth, and more.
Primperan, which contains metoclopramide, is another option; it is available in oral form (10 mg tablets) or as an injection (10 mg per 2 ml vial). This medication has been confirmed not to cause birth defects through toxicological studies and over 25 years of clinical experience.
Additionally, pregnant women may consider using Hepadial (each tablet contains 250 mg of dimecrotic acid and 50 mg of magnesium), which helps reduce smooth muscle spasms, promotes bile flow, and alleviates bile duct spasms. This medication is also considered safe during pregnancy.
All of the aforementioned medications must be used under the guidance and prescription of a doctor.
Dr. Phó Đức Nhuận
