Q: My 29 years old wife is eight weeks pregnant. She is suffering from severe cough, cold and mild headache for the last ten days. We consulted a doctor who has prescribed Dolo 650 and Avil 25 mg. My wife is a bit concerned about taking these drugs during pregnancy. Is it advisable to take these drugs to fight cold and cough?

A:All drugs need to be avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. Dolo 650 contains paracetamol, and some reports have suggested a link between the drug and development of asthma in children whose mothers took the drug. Avil contains pheniramine which is an anti-allergic agent. It should not be used unless absolutely essential. Your wife is probably suffering from normal cold and cough. Frequent steam inhalation (2-3 times daily) with Sinarest Vapocaps will give her much relief.