It is generally considered safe to take certain allergy medications during pregnancy, but it is important to be cautious and consult a healthcare provider first.
Safe Allergy Medications During Pregnancy
- Some over-the-counter oral antihistamines such as cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and fexofenadine (Allegra) are generally safe to use during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester.
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays like budesonide, mometasone, and fluticasone are also considered safe and can be used if allergy symptoms are more severe.
- Allergy shots can be continued during pregnancy if started prior, but should not be started during pregnancy.
Precautions and Medications to Avoid
- Decongestants, especially oral ones like pseudoephedrine, are linked to risks of birth defects and should be avoided, particularly in the first trimester.
- Avoid antihistamines combined with decongestants and antihistamine nasal sprays because safety data is insufficient.
- Nasal spray decongestants are generally not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks.
General Advice
- It is best to try non-medication options first, such as allergy-proofing the home, avoiding triggers, and using saline nasal sprays.
- Uncontrolled allergic asthma should be managed properly since it can pose risks during pregnancy.
- Always consult with an obstetrician or healthcare provider before taking any allergy medication during pregnancy to ensure it's appropriate for the specific case.
In summary, some allergy medicines like certain oral antihistamines and corticosteroid nasal sprays are safe during pregnancy, but decongestants and antihistamine nasal sprays should generally be avoided. Consulting a healthcare provider is essential to ensure safety.
