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Pregnancy Today's Health Advisory Panel Answers:
Is the allergy medication Allegra safe to take during pregnancy?

by David L Fay, MD
Family Physician

Christie Clinic Association
Champaign, IL
David L Fay, MD

Question

I am currently trying to get pregnant. I have been taking prescription Allegra for allergies. Should I discontinue use during pregnancy? Can you suggest a safe allergy medicine I can take that will not harm the baby? I don't think I can make it nine months without it. I just recently started taking it and it has made all the difference in the world for my allergies! Thanks - Lisa

Answer

Allegra (fexofenadine hydrochloride) is classified as Category C in pregnancy. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Allegra should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Other oral antihistamines which are Category B (probably safe) include loratadine (Claritin), chlorpheniramine (ChlorTrimeton), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and meclizine (Antivert). Nasal steroid sprays are an option, but are also Category C, because no reliable trials have been done in pregnant women.

Keep in mind that ALL medications can pose a risk during pregnancy and should only be taken if the benefits outweigh the risks.

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