Yes, many cough drops are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy in typical doses, but it is important to choose products carefully and talk with your prenatal provider before starting anything new.

Overall safety

Most standard over-the-counter cough drops (including menthol and non‑menthol types) are commonly used in pregnancy without clear evidence of harm when taken as directed and for short periods. However, there is limited formal research on some ingredients (like menthol), so experts recommend using the lowest effective dose and confirming safety with a clinician who knows your medical history.

Ingredients to check

• Menthol: Widely used in cough drops; no reports of pregnancy problems, but effects are not fully studied, so follow package dosing and ask your provider if you will use it regularly.

• Sugar and sweeteners: If you have or are at risk for gestational or pre‑existing diabetes, avoid high‑sugar lozenges and be cautious with sugar‑free products containing certain sweeteners or herbal blends.

• Added herbs or “natural” blends: Herbal ingredients and homeopathic or “alternative” lozenges are not always well‑studied in pregnancy, so avoid them unless your clinician specifically approves them.

Safer use tips

• Use cough drops only as needed and do not exceed the package’s recommended daily maximum.

• Combine them with non‑drug options like warm salt‑water gargles, honey in warm tea (if you are not giving it to a child), a humidifier, and plenty of fluids to reduce how many lozenges you need.

• Seek medical care promptly if you have fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, wheezing, or symptoms lasting more than a few days, as this can signal flu, pneumonia, or another condition that needs specific treatment in pregnancy.

When to call your provider

You should contact your OB/GYN or midwife before using cough drops if you have diabetes or gestational diabetes, take other medications, are in the first trimester and worried about any medicine exposure, or need to use cough drops frequently over several days. Bringing the specific brand (or a photo of the label) to your visit or messaging portal helps your clinician quickly confirm if that product is appropriate for you.