Case: Ginger for Morning Sickness

Case: 

LL is a 32-year-old woman who comes into the pharmacy complaining of morning sickness. She is 16 weeks pregnant and is nauseated every morning when she wakes up. LL has tried acupressure wristbands, which she used during her past pregnancy. However, the wristbands have provided no relief during this pregnancy. LL is healthy overall but has been feeling this way since becoming pregnant. LL’s friend recommended ginger, but LL does not like the taste and is looking for a natural supplement that she can take to reduce her nausea. She denies vomiting or any other symptoms. Currently, LL is taking a prenatal multivitamin. What recommendations do you have?

Answer: 

Morning sickness can vary in severity and can be treated with nonpharmacologic or pharmacologic treatment. For most pregnant women, symptoms of nausea resolve by 20 weeks. However, LL appears to be in discomfort and would like to take something natural to help relieve her symptoms. During pregnancy, women can use ginger in many forms, including capsules, ginger ale, preserves, and teas. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, one study showed that 1g a day of ginger was more effective than a placebo in reducing the symptoms of nausea. Although no safety data from clinical studies are available, many cultures use ginger as part of their daily diet. It is considered relatively healthy. In addition, LL should be advised about vitamin B6, which, as well as pyridoxine, has also been shown to reduce nausea during pregnancy and can be used alone or in combination with doxylamine. The results of one study showed that small doses of 75 mg a day were more effective than a placebo in reducing symptoms. LL can try either agent, but she should discuss her options with her physician before she starts any new medication, even if it is natural.