Can I take hay fever medicine during pregnancy?

Generally, you should not take any medicines while you are pregnant. This is especially the case during the first three months. Your doctor may prescribe medicines which have been used in pregnancy and appear to be safe. You should take the smallest effective dose for the shortest time and newer, untested medicines should be avoided.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines prevent the body from releasing the chemicals that cause an allergic reaction.

Antihistamines are not licensed for use in pregnancy. However, the older (sedating) antihistamines (such as chlorpheniramine) are usually considered safe to take in pregnancy. You must take care when driving as they can cause drowsiness.

You can also usually use antihistamine eye-drops (use with care as some people are allergic to them). An antihistamine nasal spray can usually be used with caution during pregnancy. However, you should consult your doctor first if you are intending to use eye-drops or nasal sprays.

You should not use the newer, non-sedative antihistamines (such as terfenadine, astemizole, loratidine and cetirizine), as the safety of these medicines in pregnancy has not been established.

Decongestants

You should not take decongestant medicines or nasal decongestants unless specifically prescribed by your doctor, as there is insufficient evidence of their safety.

Corticosteroid nasal sprays

These reduce inflammation in the nose. The amount of corticosteroids in nasal sprays is small. They are generally considered safe for short-term use, as long as you use the recommended dose. Drops should be avoided as more of the medicine is absorbed into your body and so there is more risk of side effects.

Sodium cromoglycate

Sodium cromoglycate prevent allergic reactions in the nose and eyes. This is a non-steroid preventative medicine and is available over-the-counter (OTC) as eye drops or a nasal spray and is usually considered safe for use in pregnancy. Sodium cromoglycate is relatively short-acting, so has to be used several times a day to be effective.

Your doctor will advise you on what is safe to take and can provide medicines on prescription, which are free while you are pregnant. Your pharmacist will also be able to advise you on what is safe to take.

Always try to avoid the symptoms of hay fever:

• Keep away from areas of long grass and other pollen-rich areas, particularly when the pollen count is at its highest in the afternoon and evening.
  
• Wear large sun glasses while outside to prevent pollen reaching the sensitive eye membranes.
  
• Remember beaches with on-shore breezes often have less pollen.
  
• Take a shower and wash your hair after going outside when the pollen count is high.
  
• Check the day's pollen forecast if you are planning an outing.