Antihistamines during pregnancy 2nd trimester. Antihistamines during pregnancy. What antihistamines can be taken during pregnancy - allergy remedies. About the types of antihistamines

Allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, food allergies, itchy dermatosis - there is one answer to "one hundred troubles". Which one, you ask? Of course, an antihistamine.

Surely each of us at least once in our lives had to resort to the help of antiallergic drugs, whether it was a rash on the skin after eating citrus fruits, itching as a result of contact with a new detergent, or swelling on the brush with a bee sting. Say what you like, but without antihistamines, it is extremely difficult to eliminate the manifestations of an allergic reaction, especially when it comes to life-threatening conditions, such as Quincke's edema or anaphylactic shock.

Unfortunately, most antihistamines have a number of contraindications, one of which is pregnancy and lactation. Despite the widest range of antiallergic drugs on the domestic market, it is quite difficult to choose the most suitable antihistamines during pregnancy.

So which of the drugs are allowed to be taken to treat allergies during pregnancy? Let's try to find out which antihistamines for pregnant women are safe.

Antihistamines during pregnancy: mechanism of action and efficacy.

To start the mechanism of the development of an allergic reaction, certain conditions must be met.

1. The presence of an allergen. An allergy to "something" develops upon contact with a particular substance that acts as a provocateur - an allergen. It can be pollen, insect venom, pet hair, food, cosmetic, etc. It is contact with the allergen that triggers a cascade of reactions leading to the development of an allergic response.

2. Re-encounter with the allergen. Anaphylactic shock and Quincke's edema are immediate-type allergic reactions that can occur during the initial contact of the body with an allergen. In all other cases, the appearance of allergy symptoms is typical for a “second date” with an allergen (antigen), when the body begins to perceive it as an enemy, producing antibodies in response.

3. Effect of antibodies on mast cells. With the development of an allergic reaction, mast cells (mastocytes) are involved, which, under the influence of antibodies (IgE), release the contents of their granules, including histamine, into the surrounding tissues. In turn, histamine, turning into an active form, just provokes the appearance of allergy symptoms: swelling, redness, shortness of breath, runny nose, drop in blood pressure, etc.

How do antihistamines work during pregnancy?

The main purpose of any antiallergic drug is to eliminate the manifestations of allergies. This effect is achieved in one of the following ways:

  • by reducing the concentration of histamine in mast cells;
  • by neutralizing already released histamine.

It should be remembered that the effectiveness of allergy treatment depends on preventing the immune system from re-exposure to the allergen. No antihistamine during pregnancy will work if the effect of the allergen on the body is permanent (for example, keeping a pet with an allergy to pet hair, diet errors with intolerance to specific foods, etc.).

IMPORTANT! Few people know, but antihistamines during pregnancy can be used for more than just treating allergies. Turning side effects in favor, drugs are used as a means of combating insomnia, SARS, severe vomiting of pregnant women, etc.

Antihistamines for pregnant women. Which ones are possible and which ones are not?

There are several generations of antihistamines, each of which differs from the previous one in a better effect, while the development of side effects becomes less likely.

IMPORTANT! All antihistamines during pregnancy affect the fetus to some extent. Self-medication during gestation is unacceptable! Before you start taking any medicine, you should consult your doctor.

Antihistamines during pregnancy. First generation.

The use of such antihistamines during pregnancy is highly undesirable. All representatives of this group (Diphenhydramine, Tavegil, Suprastin, Pipolfen, Diazolin, Fenkarol) can provoke a complication of pregnancy.

Side effects: drowsiness, dry mucous membranes, development of heart defects in the fetus.

Antihistamines during pregnancy. Second generation.

Just like its predecessors, antiallergic drugs of the presented group are used extremely rarely during pregnancy, according to vital indications on the part of the mother.

Representatives of the second generation of antihistamines are Claritin (Loratadin), Astemizol, Fenistil, Cetirizine, etc.

Advantages: in therapeutic doses, they do not penetrate the blood-brain barrier, therefore, they do not cause drowsiness, migraine and dizziness.

Antihistamines during pregnancy. Third generation.

Unlike the first two generations, third-generation antihistamines do not have a cardiotoxic effect.

Representatives: Levocetirizine, Desloratadine, Fexofenadine.

These antiallergic drugs can be used during pregnancy only after consultation with your doctor.

Antihistamines during gestation, which are acceptable in rare cases.

Suprastin: contraindicated in the first trimester and at the end of pregnancy; used in rare cases.

Claritin: appointment during the gestation period only for health reasons.

Cetirizine: it is allowed to take an antihistamine during pregnancy only under the supervision of a doctor; able to pass into breast milk.

Fexofenadine: allowed to take therapeutic doses of the drug under the supervision of a physician.

Cromolyn sodium: refers to antihistamines of indirect action. Approved for use from the second trimester of pregnancy under medical supervision.

IMPORTANT! A general contraindication for taking all antihistamines during pregnancy is the 1st trimester.

Prohibited antihistamines during pregnancy.

Diphenhydramine: prohibited throughout pregnancy; affects the contractility of the uterus.

Betadrine: absolutely contraindicated at all gestational ages.

Pipolfen: contraindicated throughout pregnancy.

Tavegil: contraindicated during gestation; there is a risk of malformations in the fetus.

Claritin: contraindicated; appointment only for health reasons.

Ketotifen: contraindicated; there is no exact data on the effect of the drug on the fetus.

Astemizol: contraindicated; has a teratogenic effect.

As a result of such a thorough analysis, the conclusion suggests itself that during pregnancy, antihistamines can be taken only in case of emergency, when the benefit to the mother outweighs the risk to her unborn baby. In any case, even before a single dose of any of the antiallergic drugs during the gestation period, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Causing swelling of the respiratory tract, tearing, rash and other allergic manifestations.

It is much easier to prevent the occurrence of allergies in a pregnant woman than to subsequently look for ways to effectively combat this disease. The reason is simple - most antihistamine drugs are prohibited for use during this period. How to be treated during pregnancy, we will consider later in the article.

Causes of allergies in pregnant women

The most common causes of this disease in pregnant women:

  • Hormonal changes in the body (during pregnancy, immunity naturally decreases).
  • Individual sensitivity to certain allergens.

The appearance of an allergy for the latter reason is quite expected if a woman had a similar phenomenon before conception. In most cases, allergies can occur on the following substances:

Awareness of the provoking factor of allergy in a pregnant woman is an important key to finding ways to combat this disease.

Symptoms of the disease

Manifestations of allergic reactions in a future mother can be completely different, the following are the most typical symptoms:

  • Nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nostrils.
  • The need to sneeze.
  • Runny nose.
  • Increased secretion of lacrimal fluid.
  • Redness of the whites of the eyes.
  • Swelling of the tissues surrounding the natural openings on the face (eyes, nostrils).
  • and itchy skin.

In advanced cases, an ordinary allergy can develop into bronchial asthma!

What antihistamines can expectant mothers take?

Any antihistamines can harm the health of the mother and fetus in the 1st trimester of pregnancy.

The thoughtless use of drugs in any of the trimesters is fraught with negative consequences for the fetus and mother, the development of a severe allergic reaction,.

The drugs, which will be described in detail below, are available in various dosage forms:

Absolutely all antihistamine drugs are not recommended for use in the first trimester of pregnancy.

The drugs listed below are approved for use in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters in whole or in part:

  1. Azelastine.
  2. Available in the form of eye drops, as well as a nasal spray of a metered type. Does not have a negative effect on the condition of the fetus, even with an overdose (clinically proven).

  3. Cetirizine.
  4. Like most other antihistamines third generation, is not prohibited in the treatment of allergic manifestations in expectant mothers (with the exception of individual intolerance or other contraindications).

    Testing on animals showed that Cetirizine did not have a carcinogenic or mutagenic effect on their offspring. The same applies to the teratogenic effect. You can use both tablets and drops inside.

  5. Fexofenadine.
  6. Indicated for medical use only. Available in tablets.

Taking medication in the last two trimesters should be agreed only with a qualified specialist: self-medication is unacceptable!

What drugs should not be used at all or should be used with caution?

When treating allergies, it should be remembered that most of them are prohibited or not recommended during pregnancy for various reasons:

  1. Dimedrol.
  2. It can significantly increase the excitability of the uterus, which can lead to its contraction and premature birth at the end of the last trimester. The described mechanisms develop at a dose of Diphenhydramine over 50 g at a time.

    Release form: solution, tablets, suppositories, as well as pencils and gels for external use.

  3. Terfenadine.
  4. After childbirth leads to weight loss in the child.

    Release form: tablets and suspension for oral administration. Also in pharmacies there is syrup and Terfenadin crystalline powder, which is used to prepare the solution. All forms of this drug prevent newborns from gaining weight normally, leading to developmental delays.

  5. Astemizol.
  6. It has a strong toxic effect on the fetus. Available in tablets and as a suspension.

  7. Tavegil.
  8. It is prescribed only when the life of a pregnant woman is threatened (i.e. for health reasons). The only recommendation for admission is vital indications, if the use of another drug is not possible.

    When tested on rats, it was found that these animals subsequently gave birth to offspring with heart defects, as well as abnormal development of the limbs. Release form - ointment, tablets.

  9. Pipolfen.
  10. Contraindicated in both pregnancy and lactation.

    Dosage forms: dragee and solution in ampoules.

  11. Erius.
  12. Completely contraindicated throughout pregnancy. This applies to all dosage forms - tablets, syrup, and drops.

  13. Betadrin.
  14. Available in the form of eye drops, completely prohibited during pregnancy. Reason - Betadrine causes uterine contractions, increasing the likelihood of spontaneous abortion in a woman.

Alternative remedies for allergies

If for some reason the use of antihistamines during pregnancy is not possible, then you should pay attention to the following means:


Doctors may also prescribe the following remedies:

  • nicotinic acid.
  • Unsaturated fatty acids. This includes oleic, as well as linoleic.
  • pantothenic acid.
  • Zinc.

In conclusion, it should be said that before using any drug, it is necessary to consult a qualified specialist who will correctly calculate the required dosage that does not harm the expectant mother and fetus.

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During 9 months of bearing a baby, the female body is not only a cozy "house" for the crumbs, but also its reliable protection from all external influences.

The appearance of an allergic reaction is an unpleasant phenomenon, but quite common. Modern medicine has learned how to effectively and safely stop almost all manifestations of atopy. Despite the natural protection of the pregnant body from allergic reactions - with the onset of the waiting period for the baby, the production of cortisol, which has an antiallergic effect, increases - cases of intolerance to any elements and the presence of an atypical reaction to them still occur. With the appearance (or exacerbation) of such a reaction in a woman in position, one should be especially careful, since another tiny developing organism is inextricably linked with the expectant mother. In addition, many antihistamines are contraindicated during pregnancy.

Antihistamines during pregnancy. pregnancy and allergies

And although huge changes occur in the body of a woman with the onset of the period of bearing a peanut, the expectant mother does not always receive an unpleasant gift in the form of an allergy. If there is a predisposition to this disease, with the onset of the waiting period for the peanut, several scenarios are possible:

  • A new life - a baby in the mother's womb - does not affect the course of an allergy in any way. If a woman knows that certain products of the world around her (cosmetics, household chemicals, some food products, etc.) cause her an atypical reaction, then she simply needs to avoid contact with them.
  • During pregnancy, the intensity of allergic manifestations decreases. In some cases, an increase in the level of the hormone cortisol leads to the fact that the allergy "recedes".
  • Carrying a baby is accompanied by an increase in allergies. The increased load experienced by the body of a pregnant woman, in some cases, leads to an increase and exacerbation of diseases that were present even before the birth of a new life in the female womb. One such disease is bronchial asthma.

Triggering an allergic reaction

Why, in some cases, atopy is not long in coming, while other pregnant women do not even know what an allergy is? What triggers an allergic reaction?

  • The appearance of an allergen. An allergic reaction to something occurs as a result of contact with a provocateur component. The role of the latter can be either flower pollen, animal hair or insect venom, or a cosmetic or food product. Interaction with an allergen provocateur triggers a reaction, which results in an allergic response.
  • Repeated "meeting" with the allergen. It is no secret that acute atypical reactions (anaphylactic shock, Quincke's edema) occur almost immediately and after the first contact with the allergen. As for other manifestations of atopy, there is an accumulation effect, when, after a repeated encounter with an irritant, the production of antibodies begins and a response is formed.
  • Effect of antibodies on mast cells. As a result of the interaction of antibodies and mast cells, their contents are released from the latter, incl. histamine. It is he who is responsible for the appearance of a rash, lacrimation, edema, hyperemia and other "companions" of allergies.

Allergy symptoms during pregnancy

Depending on the causes that caused the allergic reaction, the following manifestations of atopy are possible:

  • Rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is the most frequent and common manifestation of allergies in expectant mothers. It is not seasonal and can occur from the first weeks of gestation. At the same time, congestion appears in the area of ​​​​the nasal passages, swelling of the nasal mucosa, there is a discharge of a watery mucous secretion, a burning sensation in the larynx may occur.
  • Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye - conjunctivitis. This manifestation of allergy in most cases is combined with a runny nose. There is swelling, hyperemia (redness), itching in the eyes and eyelids, lacrimation.
  • Urticaria - rashes on the skin in the form of blisters, accompanied by severe itching.
  • Symptoms of bronchial asthma.
  • In more severe cases - anaphylactic shock, Quincke's edema, which can lead to suffocation, extensive urticaria.

Manifestations of allergies can not only cause discomfort to a pregnant woman, but also pose a threat to the child in her womb, as there is a risk of oxygen starvation. Taking antihistamines during pregnancy is aimed at alleviating the manifestations of atopy, reducing the discomfort that they cause to a woman in position, and normalizing her condition as a whole.

Therapy for allergies

To effectively combat allergies and its manifestations, an integrated approach is needed. It should include not only taking medications (if necessary), but also measures to prevent recurrence of the disease. The latter include nutrition correction, if atopy is caused by food products, minimizing, or better, completely eliminating contact with an allergen - dust, animal hair, pollen, chemicals, cosmetic products. The greatest number of questions and concerns in women is the use of antihistamines during pregnancy. Therefore, to eliminate atopy, it is necessary to combine medication with folk methods to alleviate allergic reactions.

Antihistamines during pregnancy

When an allergy occurs in women in a position, drug therapy is prescribed especially carefully. The doctor assesses the severity of intoxication and determines the need for medical correction, because it is important not only to alleviate the condition of the expectant mother, but also not to harm the baby in her womb. What antihistamines can be used during pregnancy, and which therapy should be categorically abandoned even without regard to the waiting period for the baby?

Types of antihistamines

The development of antiallergic drugs has been going on for many years, and with each new generation of drugs, pharmacologists strive to increasingly reduce the level of toxicity of drugs, as well as to ensure the selective effect of their active components. What antihistamines can be used by women during pregnancy? There are 3 generations of antihistamines:

  • 1 generation. Medicines of this group have the most extensive effect, therefore, not only block histamine receptors, but also affect the work of other body systems. Many of them have a sedative effect - cause a feeling of drowsiness, reduce the reaction. Among the side effects, dry mucous membranes are noted, there is a risk of developing heart defects on the part of the child. Medicines of this group - Suprastin, Diphenhydramine, Pipolfen (Diprazine), Tavegil, Diazolin, Zirtek, Allergodil.
  • 2 generation. Medicines of this group, like their predecessors, are also not particularly popular, since, to varying degrees, they have a cardiotoxic effect. The difference is the absence of an inhibitory effect on the woman's nervous system. Among the drugs in this group, Claritin, Fenistil, Astemizol can be distinguished.
  • 3rd generation. This category of drugs includes the most modern drugs that do not have either a sedative or cardiotoxic effect. However, even these drugs cannot be guaranteed safe for a pregnant woman and her baby. The drugs in this group include Desloratadine (Telfast, Eden, Erius), Feksadin.

The work of antiallergic drugs is directed in two main directions - the neutralization of histamine and the reduction of its production.

Antihistamines during pregnancy 1st trimester

As you know, the first weeks of bearing the crumbs are especially important, since it is during this period that the formation of the future person takes place. That is why even the most seemingly small interventions can have negative consequences. Relief of allergic manifestations during this period occurs without the participation of pharmacological products. The exception is extremely severe cases that threaten the life of a woman or her baby. Therapy is prescribed strictly by a doctor and is carried out under medical supervision.

Antihistamines during pregnancy 2nd trimester

Having stepped into the second trimester, thanks to the formed placental barrier, the baby becomes more protected from external influences, including the influence of drugs that his mother is forced to take. However, most antihistamines that can alleviate allergic manifestations, including during pregnancy, penetrate the systemic circulation to a greater or lesser extent. During this period, medical correction of the condition is allowed, but carefully and strictly according to indications.

Antihistamines during pregnancy 3rd trimester

Despite the proximity of the birth of a peanut, the danger to the baby from the components of anti-allergic medicines still exists. If the woman's condition requires intervention, the doctor can prescribe the most benign drugs, taking into account the woman's situation. Before giving birth, taking antiallergic drugs should be stopped, as their action can suppress the work of the baby's respiratory center.

What antihistamines are allowed during pregnancy

The intervention of medicinal antiallergic drugs during the first weeks of gestation is highly undesirable. But already in the second and third trimesters, depending on the clinical manifestations, the doctor may prescribe a medical correction of allergic manifestations.

  • Suprastin. Not recommended for use in the first and third trimesters.
  • Zyrtec. The drug may be the choice of the doctor, as animal studies have not shown negative effects as a result of the use of the drug. Positioned women did not participate in the studies.
  • Cromolyn sodium will relieve the condition of bronchial asthma. The drug is not recommended for use in the first 12 weeks of gestation.
  • Eden (Erius), Karitin and Telfast. The negative effect of the components of these medicines on the health of the mother and her child has not been proven, studies have not been conducted. Drugs can be prescribed strictly for health reasons.
  • Diazolin. It is acceptable to use the medication in the third trimester.

Some vitamins will also help reduce some manifestations of atopy:

  • Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid). Helps to cope with allergic rhinitis.
  • Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Reduces the susceptibility of the female body to respiratory manifestations of allergies.
  • Vitamin PP (nicotinamide). Reduces manifestations of an atypical reaction of the body to plant pollen.

It should also be taken into account that the antiallergic drugs themselves can provoke atopy.

Antihistamines prohibited for use by pregnant women

A number of anti-allergic drugs are strictly prohibited for use by women in the position, regardless of the gestational age.

  • Tavegil. The medicine is categorically contraindicated, since experimental testing on animals has shown the development of pathologies.
  • Dimedrol. The medication is prohibited even in the later stages of waiting for the little one, as it can increase the uterine tone. As a result, the pregnancy may end prematurely.
  • Astemizol. The drug is contraindicated for use, as it has a toxic effect on the fetus (studies were conducted on animals).
  • Pipolfen. The drug is prohibited for use during the entire period of pregnancy.
  • Terfenadine. As a result of taking this remedy, the baby may lag behind in weight.
  • Feksadin. Use by pregnant women is prohibited.

Prevention of allergies during pregnancy

A few simple rules will help prevent the appearance of atopy:

  • Eliminate stress, try to devote sufficient time to walking, rest and relaxation.
  • If you have not yet acquired a pet, postpone this issue until the birth of the little one. If you already have a pet, it is better to give it to relatives or friends for a while.
  • Follow a hypoallergenic diet. Watch what you eat and do not overdo it with allergenic foods (milk, honey, chocolate, citrus fruits, bright fruits and vegetables (eg strawberries, beets, eggs).
  • Perform regular wet cleaning and change of bed linen.
  • For the flowering period of "allergic" plants, it is advisable to leave, be careful about the indoor garden.

In the presence of skin manifestations of allergies, various talkers, ointments and decoctions prepared from the gifts of nature are of good help. Chamomile, calendula, celandine, nettle, succession, clay have proven themselves well.

Unfortunately, if preventive and alternative methods do not bring long-awaited relief, taking antihistamines during pregnancy cannot be avoided. A consultation with a doctor and a competent risk assessment will allow you to choose the best therapy.

This is not the first time that the World Health Organization has been bringing to the attention of the public its completely disappointing forecasts: the 21st century will inevitably become the century of allergies, since in recent decades it is allergic diseases, including and, that have been spreading around the world at an incredible speed, while affecting both pregnant women and children .

Medical statistics confirm that today at least 20% of the world's population suffers from a variety of allergic reactions, and allergic reactions develop most actively in industrialized countries with a high per capita income.

For example, 25% of people in Germany and at least 17% of people in the United States suffer from allergic diseases. Researchers note that allergies are more common in large cities and especially in metropolitan areas. Of particular concern is the fact that at least a third of children in European countries are prone to allergic reactions, and WHO data allow us to draw a disappointing conclusion that at least 10% of children worldwide suffer from asthma.

A natural question arises - how can pregnant women resist allergies, for whom this problem also becomes a problem for the health of the unborn child. What antihistamine, that is, antiallergic, agents can be used during the bearing of a baby without worrying about his health?

First of all, every expectant mother should know what an allergic reaction is in order to recognize it in time and take the necessary adequate measures.

So, it is customary to call an allergy an atypical immune response, that is, an atypical reaction of the immune system of any person to any substances that have always been considered familiar and harmless, and now cause a painful reaction of the body.

Attention! Almost anything can cause allergies: any food, cooked food, furniture, many fabrics, any substances of chemical origin, animals, plants, books, house dust, latex ...

Attention! Since numerous hormonal changes occur in the body of a pregnant woman, the usual immune response to an allergic stimulus in a pregnant woman can change, both in one direction and in the other.

It is very important for a pregnant woman to remember that allergic reactions can occur in completely different organs and body systems.

A very common and most common allergic reaction is a respiratory allergic reaction, when the organs of the respiratory system, especially the lungs and the nasal cavity, are affected and affected (cough and runny nose of varying intensity appear, the so-called allergic rhinitis).

Attention! is diagnosed in 20-25% of the population of all countries of the world, while maintaining a steady upward trend in this disease (over the past 25 years, the number of patients has increased by about three times).

Often you can encounter a so-called skin allergic reaction when the skin is affected - there is a feeling of satiety, redness, peeling of the skin, itching and other symptoms.

Another common type of allergy is ophthalmic allergy, which is provoked by the ingestion of any allergen substance into the eyes.

Attention! To successfully combat allergic reactions, it is first necessary to identify the allergen and / or allergens in order to reduce or even stop contact with this substance. It is especially important to identify the allergen substance for pregnant women in order to exclude unwanted contacts as early as possible.

Researchers and doctors believe that the growth of allergic diseases, including in expectant mothers, noted in recent decades, is caused by a general deterioration in the environment, the intensive development of all types of industrial production and environmental pollution, more frequent cases of acute stress and chronic stress conditions, increased lack of control the use of drugs, the almost universal use of chemicals for cleaning and disinfection, the increase in the number of synthetic products, the abuse of cosmetics.

Medicines for the treatment of allergic reactions in pregnant women

Attention! Every pregnant woman should remember that any manifestation of an allergic reaction is a very serious symptom, because allergy is a serious disease that can cause headaches, insomnia, stress and other extremely negative symptoms.

If any allergy symptoms appear, even if they seem minor, the pregnant woman should immediately report this to her doctor and / or consult an allergist. Such treatment cannot be postponed, since it is not known which toxic reactions can adversely affect the fetus and its development.

Attention! There is evidence that the body of a pregnant woman produces increased levels of hormones, including the hormone, which is distinguished by its anti-allergic activity, that is, it helps the body of the expectant mother to resist any manifestations of allergies.

However, in some cases, cortisol turns out to be powerless - either too much of the allergen substance enters the body, or this allergen is still unfamiliar to the body, so there is no answer. In addition, it is important to understand that the normalization of cortisol in the postpartum period is inevitable, which will cause the resumption of all allergic manifestations.

Interesting! Clinical doctors note that in the last four weeks before the onset of the birth process, all expectant mothers practically disappear any allergic diseases and their condition improves significantly.

In a word, pregnant women also from time to time have to resort to the help of antihistamines that can fight allergies.

Attention ! Almost all antihistamines are sold in pharmacies without a prescription, that is, they belong to the category of over-the-counter drugs. However, such over-the-counter dispensing should not become a reason for uncontrolled use, since many, including over-the-counter, drugs are STRICTLY prohibited for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

For use during the period of bearing a child, only some antihistamines are allowed, and with many reservations and only with the permission of the doctor, if there is no other way out that does not involve the use of drugs in this case.

To date, several generations of antihistamine (antiallergic) drugs are known, and all of them should be used with extreme caution or even not used at all, and this does not depend on the generation of the drug. Most often, the differences between the generations of antihistamines are in the reduction and weakening of side effects, in the increase in the duration of the effective effect on the body of a single dose of the drug, in the decrease in the ability to get used to taking and get drug dependence.

As you know, first-generation antihistamines began to be used as early as 1936, but some of them are still used, and their appointment to pregnant and / or lactating women is also possible.

Suprastin (Chloropyramine) - can be prescribed to a pregnant woman with an acute allergic condition, however, the annotation (instruction) to the drug denies this possibility. However, it is believed that in some cases, the benefits that the expectant mother may receive from taking this drug outweigh the possible risks to the fetus. Thus, in the second and third trimester, Suprastin for a pregnant woman can be prescribed if the doctor finds it appropriate.

Tavegil (Clemastin) - is used for pregnant women only for health reasons, but at any opportunity, this drug should be replaced with a safer one. The fact is that in studies on laboratory rats, congenital malformations of the offspring were revealed, including heart defects, as well as the possibility of the appearance of defective limbs. Therefore, at the slightest opportunity to replace this drug for a pregnant woman with another, this must be done.

Pipolfen (Promethazine) - use during pregnancy (at any time) is categorically not recommended.

Diphenhydramine - it is allowed to use from the second trimester, but with special care, since the drug can provoke an increased excitability of the uterus, which can lead to spontaneous abortion (miscarriage) or premature birth.

Second generation antihistamines

Claritin (Loratodin) - this drug may be used during pregnancy if the benefit to the mother outweighs the risks to the fetus.

Astemizol - It is categorically not recommended for use at any stage of pregnancy, since its effect on the fetus is very toxic.

Azelastine - it is considered that this drug for use by pregnant women is safe, since during clinical trials the absence of a teratogenic effect on the growing and developing body of the fetus was proven. However, the use of the drug in the first trimester of pregnancy is not recommended, since it is during this period that all organs and systems of the fetus are laid.

Third generation antihistamines

Cetirizine (Parlazin, Zyrtec) - during pregnancy is not contraindicated, since all studies on rats and other animals have had positive results: teratogenic, carcinogenic and mutagenic effects have not been recorded. However, this does not mean that there are no concerns when using these drugs.

Telfast (Fexofenadine, Levocetirizine, Desloratadine) - pregnant women can use these drugs only as prescribed by the attending physician

Attention! All and any (without exception) antihistamines, to a greater or lesser extent, can pose a danger to the healthy development of the fetus. Any antihistamine drug during pregnancy can only be taken under medical supervision. Any self-appointment in this case is strictly prohibited! During the first trimester of pregnancy, taking antihistamines is strictly not recommended. During the II and III trimesters, taking antihistamines is possible only as directed by a doctor and only when the expected benefit outweighs the potential harm.

As you know, many foods can cause an allergic reaction. The hypoallergenic diet for pregnant women suggests excluding any foods that can become a source of an allergic reaction during the period of bearing a child.

So, it is known that the source can be such products: eggs (especially chicken), milk (especially fresh) and cheese, honey and bee products, all seafood, including crabs, shrimp, crayfish, oysters, fish and caviar, including black and red, soybeans in any form, strawberries and raspberries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, any canned food, packaged juices, spicy, salty, fatty and fried foods, smoked meats.

Safe for expectant mothers are any cereals from any cereals, lean meats, poultry (meat dishes are best cooked boiled), fresh vegetables and fruits with a soft color, as well as dishes from them (including potatoes, any cabbage, zucchini, cucumbers, yellow and green apples, pears).

In addition to compliance, it is necessary to observe other precautions that will allow you to resist allergic manifestations:

  • It is very important that a pregnant woman in every possible way avoid not only active, but also passive smoking, since aggressive substances can cause irreparable harm to a developing fetus.
  • The room where the expectant mother is located must be constantly ventilated.
  • Wet cleaning is required daily.
  • Upholstered furniture and carpets should be vacuumed at least once a week.

Attention! To avoid allergies or significantly reduce its symptoms, taking special vitamin and mineral complexes for pregnant women, which can only be prescribed by your doctor, will help.

List of antihistamines that are PROHIBITED during pregnancy

Attention! Any antihistamines are categorically contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy, when all organs and systems are laid in the fetus.

In the second and third trimester, some antihistamines can be taken, but only in accordance with the indications and only as directed by a doctor. However, there are anti-allergic drugs, the use of which is strictly prohibited at any stage of pregnancy:

Diphenhydramine - is able to influence the contractility of the uterus, therefore it is definitely prohibited throughout the entire gestation period.

Betadrine

Pipolfen - a complete and unconditional contraindication at any gestational age of bearing a baby.

Tavegil - a complete and unconditional contraindication at any gestational age of bearing a baby, since taking this drug can provoke fetal malformations.

Claritin - a complete and unconditional contraindication at any gestational age of bearing a baby. It can be prescribed only for health reasons if an adequate replacement is not possible.

Ketotifen - a complete and unconditional contraindication at any period of gestational bearing of the baby, since there are no accurate data on the effect of this drug on the fetus.

Astemizol - a complete and unconditional contraindication at any gestational age of bearing a baby, since the teratogenic effect of this drug has been proven, that is, there is a possibility of developing intrauterine defects and deformities.

Attention ! Any other antihistamines should be used during pregnancy with extreme caution and only as prescribed by a doctor, in no case exceeding the prescribed dosage.

It has been proven that during pregnancy, a woman's body produces an increased level of cortisol, which has anti-allergic activity. Thus, pregnant women are less likely to suffer from manifestations, however, this is not always the case.

information In everyday life, antihistamines come to the rescue in the fight against allergies. There are a lot of them and all of them are freely dispensed without a prescription through the pharmacy network. And if at first glance, allergies seem like a simple disease that has a simple treatment, then this is far from the case.

With any disease, it is especially difficult for pregnant women, since very few drugs are allowed to be used during this period, most drugs are not safe. This also applies to antihistamines.

Allergies during pregnancy and antihistamines

There are several generations of antihistamine drugs. Each new generation is more perfect than the previous one: the number and strength of side effects decreases, the likelihood of addiction decreases, the duration of the drug increases.

First generation appeared in 1936 and is still widely used in medicine. These include (most famous):

  • Chloropyramine, or Suprastin. It is prescribed for pregnant women in the treatment of acute allergic conditions, although the annotation says that use during pregnancy is contraindicated. It can be used during and when the likely benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus;
  • Clemastine, or Tavegil. Pregnant women can use it only for health reasons (when it is not possible to use another drug), this is due to the registration of cases of negative effects on the offspring of pregnant rats (heart defects, limb defects);
  • Promethazine, or Pipolfen. Not recommended for use during pregnancy;
  • Dimedrol. With extreme caution from the second trimester. May cause increased excitability of the uterus.

Second generation:

  • Loratodin, or Claritin. Its use is allowed with an adequate risk-benefit assessment;
  • Astemizol. Not recommended during pregnancy, because. has a toxic effect on the fetus;
  • Azelastine . In trials of the drug when using doses that are many times higher than therapeutic, no teratogenic effect on the fetus has been identified. And despite this, the drug is not recommended for use in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Third generation:

  • Cetirizine, or Parlazin, or Zyrtec. Pregnancy is not an absolute contraindication. In the conducted studies of the drug Cetirizine on animals, no carcinogenic, mutagenic and teratogenic effects on their offspring were registered. Yet concerns about its use remain the same;
  • Fexofenadine or Telfast. Can only be used as directed by a doctor.

As follows from the above, none of the antihistamines guarantees you complete safety for the unborn child and peace of mind for you. You can take any drug only after consulting a doctor and under his strict control.



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