Can You Take Zicam During Pregnancy?

 Abby McCoy Profile Photo
By Abby McCoy | Updated on Dec 10, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Zicam During Pregnancy?

Zicam may not be safe to take during pregnancy. 

While no cure yet exists for the common cold, Zicam claims to make your colds milder and shorter. Made up of the mineral zinc and a mish-mash of other ingredients, Zicam has not been tested by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 1 , and studies are limited as to how well it works.

Those extra ingredients are known only to Zicam, and without knowing exactly what’s in a medication, most healthcare providers will recommend you don’t use it while pregnant. If you feel strongly about taking it, talk it over with your provider. 

After future studies, the FDA may approve Zicam for pregnancy, but since so many unknowns surround its safety, you may have to ride out that cold old-school style for now.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

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  1. "Homeopathic Products"https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/homeopathic-products.


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Abby McCoy
Updated on Dec 10, 2023

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Can You Take Zicam During Pregnancy?

 Abby McCoy Profile Photo
By Abby McCoy | Updated on Dec 10, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Zicam During Pregnancy?

Zicam may not be safe to take during pregnancy. 

While no cure yet exists for the common cold, Zicam claims to make your colds milder and shorter. Made up of the mineral zinc and a mish-mash of other ingredients, Zicam has not been tested by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 1 , and studies are limited as to how well it works.

Those extra ingredients are known only to Zicam, and without knowing exactly what’s in a medication, most healthcare providers will recommend you don’t use it while pregnant. If you feel strongly about taking it, talk it over with your provider. 

After future studies, the FDA may approve Zicam for pregnancy, but since so many unknowns surround its safety, you may have to ride out that cold old-school style for now.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. "Homeopathic Products"https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/homeopathic-products.


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