I consent to routine medical care provided by The HG and Morning Sickness Clinic, including evaluation, diagnosis, ordering of tests, prescribing medications, coordination with other clinicians, and any other care deemed medically necessary for my condition. I understand that no guarantees can be made regarding outcomes.
RISKS OF HYPEREMESIS GRAVIDARUM
HG may lead to serious complications including dehydration, malnutrition, kidney injury, Wernicke’s encephalopathy, electrolyte abnormalities, and, extremely rarely, maternal death. Pregnancies affected by HG may have higher rates of preterm delivery, fetal growth restriction, placental abruption, preeclampsia, or stillbirth. Children exposed to severe maternal malnutrition may have higher risks of neurodevelopmental and behavioral concerns.
Because HG can pose significant risks to both maternal and fetal health, treatment—including medication management—is often medically necessary to stabilize hydration, nutrition, and overall well-being.
HG can increase the risk of obstetric complications. MSC provides specialty care for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and does not replace the role of an obstetric provider. I agree to maintain regular prenatal visits with my obstetric provider and to follow their recommendations alongside HG treatment. I understand that failure to stay in routine OB care may increase risks to my pregnancy.
MEDICATION MANAGEMENT
We will help manage your symptoms using evidence-based recommendations from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Hyperemesis Education and Research Foundation.
Bonjesta and Diclegis are the only FDA-approved medications for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy; all other medications commonly used for HG—such as ondansetron (Zofran), metoclopramide (Reglan), or promethazine (Phenergan)—are widely used off-label and have established safety profiles.
Your provider will discuss with you the purpose of each medication, how it works, dosage and frequency, expected benefits, potential side effects, drug interactions, and alternatives. You may request copies of relevant medical literature at any time.
RISKS AND BENEFITS OF MEDICATIONS
Medications used to treat HG are intended to reduce nausea and vomiting, improve hydration and nutrition, prevent hospitalizations, decrease risks related to maternal malnutrition, and support healthy fetal growth. Many patients experience substantial improvement with appropriate treatment.
No medication is completely risk-free, and research in pregnancy is limited. For many medications, the full scope of risks is not known. Most medications used for HG have long records of use in pregnancy and generally reassuring safety profiles, but small or rare risks cannot be ruled out.
Ondansetron (Zofran) and related serotonin-blocking medications
Some studies suggest a small possible increase in the risk of cleft lip or cleft palate, while many large studies have not confirmed this association.
There may be a small increased risk of structural cardiac defects; findings across studies are inconsistent and the absolute risk appears low.
Ondansetron can cause QT prolongation, particularly in individuals with electrolyte abnormalities or underlying heart conditions.
Dopaminergic anti-nausea medications (metoclopramide, prochlorperazine, promethazine, droperidol, chlorpromazine)
Rare risk of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), including muscle stiffness, restlessness, abnormal movements, or dystonia.
Very rare cases of long-term movement disorders (such as tardive dyskinesia) have been reported, typically with prolonged or high-dose use.
Most EPS symptoms, if they occur, are temporary and treatable.
Steroids
May be used for severe or refractory HG.
There is a small theoretical risk of cleft lip/palate with early-pregnancy steroid exposure, although the absolute risk is very low.
Acid reducers, antihistamines, vitamins, and electrolytes (famotidine, pantoprazole, omeprazole, diphenhydramine, thiamine, vitamin B6, etc.)
Generally have reassuring safety data in pregnancy.
Risks may include allergic reactions, sedation, or electrolyte changes.
IV fluids and IV medications
Risks include allergic reactions, vein irritation, infection, electrolyte disturbances, and very rarely anaphylaxis.
Other medication side effects
Some medications used to treat HG may cause drowsiness or impair alertness. I agree to avoid driving or operating machinery if I feel sedated.
ALTERNATIVES TO MEDICATIONS
Alternatives may include:
Supportive care only (hydration, rest, dietary modifications)
Non-medication therapies (ginger, acupressure, lifestyle strategies)
Behavioral or nutritional support
Choosing to use no medication
Consultation with a high-risk obstetric specialist
However, untreated or undertreated HG carries its own risks—including dehydration, malnutrition, electrolyte abnormalities, hospitalization, and fetal complications—which must be weighed against the risks of medication use.
INFORMED CONSENT
I understand the risks of hyperemesis gravidarum and the potential complications it may cause for both maternal and fetal health. I understand the potential risks and benefits of medications used to treat HG, including small or rare risks such as cleft lip/palate or cardiac defects with ondansetron, movement disorders with dopaminergic medications, allergic reactions, side effects, and the fact that some medication risks in pregnancy are not fully known.
I understand the purpose of HG medications, expected benefits, potential side effects, and available alternatives, including choosing not to take medications. I have had the opportunity to ask questions. I may decline or discontinue medication at any time.
I understand that many medications used to treat HG are prescribed off-label in pregnancy, and I consent to their use based on current evidence and clinical judgment.
I understand that failure to take medications as directed, obtain recommended labs, or attend follow-up visits may increase risks to me and my pregnancy. MSC is not responsible for adverse outcomes related to missed appointments, failure to obtain testing, or stopping medications without medical guidance.
I agree to use all medications only as prescribed. I will not share, sell, or misuse medications and will store them safely. I understand MSC may decline to prescribe or may discontinue medications if safety concerns arise or if clinic policies are violated. I will inform MSC of all medications prescribed by other clinicians and will not take medications not prescribed to me.
I understand that MSC providers may adjust, modify, or decline treatments, medications, or refills if they believe it is medically unsafe or inappropriate.
I consent to medication management for hyperemesis gravidarum. I understand that medical outcomes cannot be guaranteed, and my provider has explained the risks, benefits, and alternatives to the best of their ability. I have had the opportunity to ask questions and understand that I may decline or discontinue treatment at any time.
This consent applies to all care provided by MSC, including telehealth, medication management, laboratory orders, and care coordination, unless specifically revoked in writing.