Dr. Marjorie Greenfield
Specializing in pregnancy and birth.
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 Ask Dr. Greenfield
Taking Allergy Medicine when Pregnant | | | QUESTION | | | Dear Dr. Greenfield,
I am hoping to become pregnant soon. I take Allegra for allergies to mold, pollen, and dust. Is it safe to continue taking it during pregnancy? Every time I try to go off it, I feel miserable. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!— Kim in Massachusetts | | | ANSWER |
June 12, 2001 | | | Dear Kim,
It sounds like you have pretty bad allergies!
Unfortunately, Allegra hasn't been well studied in pregnancy and falls into category C: "use only if the benefits clearly outweigh any potential risks." The anti-histamines chlorpheniramine (Chlortrimetron) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl), while more sedating, are category B, which means there may be a bit more information about potential risks of taking them during pregnancy.
There are also newer medications that help prevent allergic reactions, called mast cell stabilizers, which are probably safe in pregnancy. Even then, it is usually better to avoid unnecessary medications in pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester.
For more information, see our article Medications in Pregnancy, and talk to your doctor about your alternatives. Good luck!— by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D. |
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