[Asthma and rhinitis medications: pregnancy precautions]

Presse Med. 2000 Oct 7;29(29):1625-9.
[Article in French]

Abstract

DRUG PRESCRIPTION: Many pregnant women have asthma and/or rhinitis. Particular attention is required when prescribing drugs in this situation. Medication can be prescribed during pregnancy when the apparent benefit is greater than the apparent risk. Usually at least one drug of each major class used to control these disease can be given safely. In addition, physiological changes associated with pregnancy could affect the upper and lower pathways. CAREFUL MANAGEMENT: Ideally, drug prescription for asthma and/or rhinitis in pregnant women should be part of a global process implicating obstetricians, primary care physicians, and allergy, rhinology or lung specialists. The only way to improve the mother's comfort and avoid complications for both mother and child is to perfectly control the disease. Indeed, it would be regrettable to be too prudent and deprive symptomatic patients of active treatments. Patients should be clearly informed of the benefits and risks of drug therapy.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Asthma / drug therapy*
  • Bronchodilator Agents / adverse effects
  • Female
  • Histamine H1 Antagonists / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Nasal Decongestants / adverse effects
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / chemically induced*
  • Pregnancy Complications / prevention & control
  • Rhinitis / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Bronchodilator Agents
  • Histamine H1 Antagonists
  • Nasal Decongestants