Women with allergies may have worsened symptoms during pregnancy due to their immune system responding slightly differently during pregnancy. Prevention methods, such as avoiding allergens, should be implemented during pregnancy. Over-the-counter and prescription medications aren't necessarily to be avoided during pregnancy, but some are not as safe as others. It is important to consult a doctor about current allergy medicines before continuing them in pregnancy.
Immunotherapy
Women who receive immunotherapy, or allergy shots, before pregnancy can usually continue to do so with the advice of a doctor, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. This type of treatment should not be started for the first time during pregnancy because a woman needs to know beforehand how she responds to the treatment. Any signs of adverse effects after the shot indicate that the treatment should not be repeated.
Antihistamines
No over-the-counter or prescription medication is entirely safe for use during pregnancy. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies drugs according to their level of safety during pregnancy. "American Family Physician" indicates that chlorpheniramine is the antihistamine of choice, and is classified as level "B" by the FDA. This classification means that animal reproduction studies have revealed no risk to the fetus from this drug, though no human studies have yet been performed.
Diphenhydramine is a commonly used drug during pregnancy, according to "American Family Physician." It can be used to help a woman sleep, block histamine and reduce nausea. In high doses, this drug can cause preterm labor due to it behaving like oxytocin, the hormone that is released when a woman is having contractions and her uterus is dilating in preparation for birth. Like other antihistamines, this drug blocks the immune system's response to allergens that cause it to create symptoms like coughing, sneezing, watery eyes and congestion.
Nasal Allergy Medicines
The American College of Allergies, Asthma and Immunology points out that inhaled drugs are often preferred because they provide direct relief without an increased risk of sharing the medicine with the fetus. Older drugs, meaning those that have been around longer than others, are generally regarded as safer for use during pregnancy because they have a proven safety track. Many of the antihistamines, including diphenhydramine and chlorpheniramine, come in alternative forms like a nasal spray. A doctor can make the best recommendation or prescription for treatment during pregnancy.
