Actovegin in pregnancy

The instructions for the drug "Actovegin" prescribe its use when ischemic processes are detected, for faster healing of wounds after surgery and injuries, burns, elimination of disorders in the vascular system and blood circulation, including the treatment of newborns.

The active ingredient in Actovegin is a deproteinized hemoderivative obtained from calf blood. This product contains a large amount of animal proteins and is considered effective due to its active action, which is aimed at stimulating metabolic processes in the body at the cellular level. Taking this drug promotes better accumulation of oxygen and glucose in the body. Thus, thanks to Actovegin, blood supply to those tissue areas where metabolism is impaired (tissues subject to hypoxia, as well as ulcers and wounds) is improved, thereby increasing the energy reserves of cells. This drug increases the concentration of amino acids, as well as substances such as phosphocreatine, ADP and ATP. The effect of the drug begins almost immediately after oral administration (within the first 30 minutes), and its maximum effect is achieved on average in 2-3 hours.

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Why is Actovegin prescribed during pregnancy?

Doctors recommend that some women start taking Actovegin while they are still planning a pregnancy to minimize the risk of problems associated with carrying a baby. This applies to women who are prone to peripheral circulation disorders (swelling, ulcers), varicose veins, and a predisposition to hemorrhoids.

Other indications for Actovegin during pregnancy according to the instructions:

• Metabolic and vascular disorders of the brain (including ischemic stroke, traumatic brain injury).
• Peripheral (arterial and venous) vascular disorders and their consequences (arterial angiopathy, trophic ulcers); diabetic polyneuropathy.
• Wound healing (ulcers of various etiologies, burns, trophic disorders (bedsores), disruption of wound healing processes).
• Prevention and treatment of radiation injuries of the skin and mucous membranes during radiation therapy.

But even the use of the drug in these cases carries a risk to the fetus.

Actovegin dosage during pregnancy

The dosage of Actovegin during pregnancy is prescribed exclusively by a doctor, as well as according to the instructions for this medication. However, it should be remembered that before the start of the infusion, it is recommended to conduct a test for the possibility of hypersensitivity to the drug in the pregnant woman in the form of a test injection (dose - 2 ml, intramuscularly).

Although the use of the drug "Akovegin" has never had a negative effect on the mother's body and fetal development, it is still necessary to consider the possibility of a potential risk to the child. Therefore, the introduction of the drug requires caution, it should be used strictly under the supervision of the attending physician.

Tableted "Actovegin" is usually prescribed in a dosage of 200 mg 3 times a day before meals. The pills should be washed down with a small amount of water. In case of intramuscular administration of this drug to a pregnant woman, the injection is done slowly in a dosage of no more than 5 ml. It should be noted that "Actovegin" solutions may have a yellowish tint. It is formed due to the presence of starting materials in the composition of the drug, but does not affect the quality and tolerability of the drug at all. It is strictly forbidden to use an opaque solution or one that contains any particles. After opening the ampoule, the "Actovegin" solution cannot be stored.

The effect of the drug is observed within 30 minutes after oral administration or infusion. The maximum indicator of its action is achieved on average after 3 hours.

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Actovegin when planning pregnancy

Many medical professionals recommend that women begin taking this drug even before the desired pregnancy occurs, i.e. during the planning period.

Actovegin is recommended when planning pregnancy in order to prevent the development of possible disorders in the future, in particular, such as placental insufficiency. The fact is that bearing a child is a very serious test for the woman's body, this process requires coordination in the work of all organs and systems. The placenta serves as protection for the future baby, through the blood vessels of which the fetus receives glucose, oxygen and all the elements necessary for full development. There are often cases when a woman expecting a child has a disruption in blood circulation, as a result of which the placenta is depleted and cannot form completely. This is the so-called "placental insufficiency". Such a problem can cause premature birth or miscarriage, which is extremely undesirable for any woman. To avoid such tragic situations, the gynecologist prescribes "Actovegin" to the expectant mother even at the stage of conception planning. The drug improves blood circulation, affecting the structure of cells, which, in turn, significantly increases their viability and promotes proper functioning.

"Actovegin" has no contraindications and pronounced side effects, so it does not pose a threat to either the mother or the child. However, before you start taking this drug, you must consult a doctor who will determine the method of administration and dosage.

Actovegin during pregnancy can be prescribed in the early or late stages.

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Is it possible to take Actovegin during pregnancy?

Expectant mothers are often concerned about the question "Can I take Actovegin during pregnancy?", especially when the drug is prescribed in the early stages. Following the instructions for the drug and numerous reviews from specialists, we can conclude that fears regarding taking Actovegin tablets during pregnancy are absolutely groundless. However, it should be remembered that self-medication is not allowed during this period, so the drug should be prescribed by the attending physician. It is the doctor who will determine the required dose and the optimal method of administration: in the form of tablets, intramuscularly or intravenously, having previously analyzed the nature of the disorders.

Actovegin's main task is to activate metabolic processes at the cellular level, as well as to restore the nutrition of cells and tissues.

The use of Actovegin during pregnancy has been known for a long time, although medical disputes regarding this drug have not subsided to this day. Opponents talk about the insufficient amount of data regarding the safety of Actovegin, while supporters note the long-term and successful use of this drug in practice. At the same time, cases of its harmful effects on the woman's body have never been identified.

Due to the insufficient number of studies proving the complete safety of the drug "Actovegin", it should be taken with caution and only as prescribed by the attending physician.

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Instructions for Actovegin during pregnancy

Instructions for Actovegin during pregnancy help determine the method and dosage of taking this drug, which is isolated from the blood of calves. The active substance of Actovegin is a deproteinized hemoderivative that promotes the activation of metabolic processes in tissues at the cellular level, improves cell nutrition, and stimulates their renewal.

The "Instructions" for the drug "Actovegin" indicate that it can be used in different dosage forms: tablets, ointments for external use, injection solutions and infusion solutions. "Actovegin" tablets are 200 mg dragees. The tablets are taken before meals, it is recommended to wash down the dragees with a small amount of water. The content of this drug in solutions varies: 10% or 20% solutions are produced for infusions, and ampoules of 2, 5 or 10 ml are produced for injections.

It is necessary to take into account that the dosage and method of taking "Actovegin" in one case or another should be prescribed by a doctor, taking into account the condition of the pregnant woman and the fetus. Naturally, the tablets act more slowly, but over a long period of time. In acute forms of circulatory disorders and oxygen starvation of the fetus, it will be optimal to take this drug in the form of injections or droppers.

Actovegin during pregnancy has a rapid effect within 10-30 minutes after administration, reaching its maximum within 2 to 6 hours (on average - after 3 hours).

Contraindications to taking Actovegin during pregnancy

Actovegin during pregnancy practically does not cause any side effects, however, despite the absolute naturalness of this drug, there are a number of contraindications to it.

Contraindications to taking Actovegin during pregnancy are as follows:

• An allergic reaction of the body to the drug, manifested in the form of hives or swelling, as well as hot flashes, increased sweating, etc. The possibility of developing anaphylactic shock in a pregnant woman is also possible. In addition, allergy symptoms may include a feeling of tightness in the chest, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, increased and difficult breathing, headache, pain of various etiologies (in the joints, throat, abdomen, muscles, etc.).
• Pulmonary edema.
• Fluid retention in the body.
• Decompensated heart failure.
• Decreased amount of urine excreted (oliguria).
• Inability to pass urine into the bladder (anuria).

If an allergic reaction to the drug "Actovegin" occurs with the above symptoms, the pregnant woman should immediately stop taking the drug and immediately consult a doctor. You should not be independent and take "Actovegin" without a doctor's prescription, because the expectant mother may not be aware of hidden forms of possible disorders and diseases. Taking any drug, including natural ones, can only worsen the situation.

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Side effects of actovegin during pregnancy

Actovegin is well tolerated during pregnancy and in most cases does not cause any side effects in pregnant women. However, it should be remembered that the naturalness and relative harmlessness of this drug does not exclude serious responsibility in its use. Therefore, the appointment of "Actovegin" should be carried out by the attending physician in those cases that require immediate intervention to prevent possible complications during pregnancy.

Side effects of Actovegin during pregnancy are limited to such manifestations as allergic reactions of the body: in rare cases, swelling and urticaria may occur. Some women may experience symptoms such as increased sweating, a slight increase in temperature and a hot flash. If any side effects occur, the pregnant woman should contact her doctor, who will prescribe another drug or adjust the dosage of Actovegin. If the pregnant woman develops an allergy, the drug must be discontinued. Women who have heart failure or pulmonary edema are prohibited from taking this drug.

Reviews of Actovegin during pregnancy

Reviews of Actovegin during pregnancy are generally positive, since the drug does not cause side effects and is well tolerated. The only disadvantages that expectant mothers note are the high cost of the drug and the painfulness of the injections. Many women took Actovegin in courses, the duration of which was determined by the attending physician.

Of course, during the period of bearing a child, every expectant mother should strive to protect herself and her baby from possible pathologies by refusing excessive physical activity, a full and balanced diet, sufficient sleep and rest. For good blood circulation, daily walks in the fresh air for 3 hours are necessary. Any stress can cause a malfunction in the body and provoke the threat of miscarriage. Therefore, pregnant women are advised to be as nervous as possible, not to worry about trifles, and to have emotional calm.

Actovegin is often used during pregnancy along with other drugs (aspirin, complamine, dipyridamole, insteron, etc.). At the same time, it is necessary to remember the contraindications of some of these drugs, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy. In addition, all of them have side effects. Therefore, it will not be easy to find a replacement for Actovegin without risk to the pregnant woman and her baby.