Question
Hello. I am searching for clarification on safe pain management during pregnancy. I have suffered chronic back pain for about 7 years now due to deg disc disease and spinal stenosis. I have not conceived yet, but we are currently trying.  For the past several years I have been on Lyrica, Topomax, Lidoderm patches and Hydrocodone.  I am off of the Lyrica and Topomax but still continue to take Hydrocodone and use the Lidoderm patches. We were told these are safe during pregnancy but to be prepared the newborn may be more cranky the first few days from the hydrocodone.  I have been looking for information to substantiate this but all I have found is info on pain management during labor. Can you please clarify if it is safe to continue the hydrocodone while pregnant or is there something that is. Also, the Lyrica & Topomax were stopped 2 months ago, is it out of my system or should I wait longer.

Answer
Hi Bobbie,
I saw your question in our question pool and thought I could help.
I have always heard that when stopping medications before becoming pregnant it is best to wait at least 3-4 months to make sure all lingering traces of the drug are out of the system.
As far as the Hydrocodone during pregnancy, you really should talk to a OB/GYN or a pediatrician. Hydrocodone is a narcotic, taking it consistently during pregnancy will cause your baby to be born physically addicted to the hydrocodone. Several hours after birth the baby will start going into withdraw from the drug. The doctor may decide to give the baby hydrocodone or something similar and then wean the baby off of it over a period of time. I am not sure what the effects hydrocodone would have on development during pregnancy or on the infant after birth. It may or may not be similar to other narcotic drugs. Be sure to talk all this over carefully with a pediatrician before you get pregnant. A pain specialist might also be able to help come up with an alternative medication you can take during pregnancy.
I wish you the best
Tracy