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All of us fall sick from time to time and keep taking pills to feel better. But if you are pregnant, you will have to give up this habit of popping pills. Taking certain medicines during pregnancy can have side effects on your body because of your weak immune system and hormonal imbalance. For instance, taking medicines for constipation can provide temporary relief, but sometimes it can lead to other issues like bloating. As morning sickness and nausea are a common symptom of pregnancy, you might be suggested doxinate medicine for the same. But should you take this medicine? Find out!
What Is Doxinate?
Doxinate is an oral medication that is available in the form of tablets and capsules. It is used to treat constipation. More commonly known as ‘Docusate Sodium’, this stool softener provides relief from constipation and even prevents it. Hence, recently, there has been an increase in the use of doxinate during pregnancy. In pregnancy, as the immune system of a woman becomes weak, it can lead to the manifestation of issues like constipation on a regular basis. Taking Doxinate oral can provide relief from the same.
Doxinate also helps combat morning sickness, heartburn, and acidity. This is one of the most versatile medicines prescribed to women at any stage of their pregnancies.
Is Doxinate Safe for Pregnant Women?
As per doctors, Doxinate is safe to use during pregnancy. According to the American system of grading drugs, it falls in the category A pregnancy drug, which means it has little to no side effects. Hence, it should not cause any significant damage to you or your baby. However, it is suggested that you take this drug only when it suggested by your doctor. Furthermore, if you feel any uneasiness after taking this drug, stop using it. And, consult your health care physician for the same. Also, its over-the-counter use is not recommended.
When Should You Start and Stop Taking Doxinate During Pregnancy?
Doxinate is usually prescribed to combat or ease the symptoms of morning sickness. Morning sickness can manifest within the second week of pregnancy and continue till the 12th week. However, no two pregnancies are alike; many women may have morning sickness from the 6th week. And how long should you continue taking this medicine will depend on your condition. If you are taking this drug, discuss with your doctor on how and when you can stop it, and if you can do without it.
What Is the Pregnancy Category of Medicines?
Pregnancy category is the ranking of medicines in the order of their safety during pregnancy. This helps a pregnant woman understand which medicines are safe to consume during pregnancy and which are not. The medicines are categorised based on the effect they have on the health of the developing baby and the health of the mother. Doxinate is considered a safe drug during pregnancy.
Side Effects of Taking Doxinate
Although Doxinate has been classified as a safe drug, it has its own side effects. These side effects are usually mentioned on the packaging of the medicine and may interfere with your daily activities. Some of the side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- A headache
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach pain
Some side effects can be caused due to pre-existing conditions like:
- Asthma
- Glaucoma
- Bronchitis
- Any impairment of the airways
Consult your physician if you experience any of the side effects or if there is some discomfort during the time you take tablets. Before taking the medicines, please consult a doctor and discuss all pre-existing conditions if you have so that the doctor can give you an informed opinion.
What If You Don’t Treat Morning Sickness?
Morning sickness can be an extremely uncomfortable condition to manage during pregnancy. It can be difficult to deal with morning sickness without taking medication and rest. If left untreated, morning sickness can result in:
- Extreme dehydration
- Keep you from digesting your food
- Constantly keep you nauseous
- Decrease your food levels by keeping your appetite lower than it should be
- Vertigo and dizziness
Doxinate can help manage this while also fighting constipation in the later stages of pregnancy.
It is estimated that over 70% of women have the problem of constipation and morning sickness during pregnancy, and 5 out of 10 women find morning sickness unbearable and take days off work to recuperate from it. Using medication can help treat morning sickness and constipation to an extent. However, you should take medicines only if they are prescribed by your doctor. Do not self-medicate and do not share your medicines with anyone else unless they are on the same medication as you.
In the later stages of pregnancy, Doxinate can help combat constipation and heartburn. But it is highly recommended that you understand the need for and usage of this medicine by talking to your health care provider before taking it.
