Theraflu may not be not safe to take during pregnancy. 

No one likes being sick with the flu, but when you’re pregnant, it can feel that much worse. While you may want to run to the pharmacy and get some relief in the form of over-the-counter flu medicine, you need to first understand how they can affect you and your baby.

Theraflu ¹ is made up of three medications:

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): fairly safe during pregnancy, if taken short-term.

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): the antihistamine of choice during pregnancy.

• Phenylephrine (used in decongestants like Sudafed PE): can lower blood flow to the uterus and harm the baby.

While the first two ingredients are safe, phenylephrine makes your blood vessels tighten, which keeps your baby from getting enough oxygen. It can also cause high blood pressure in pregnant people and has been linked to some brain bleeding. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends speaking about the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before taking it.