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Evidence summaries

Treating Allergic Rhinitis in Pregnancy

There is no evidence on the teratogenicity of different treatments of allergic rhinitis in pregnancy (first and second generation antihistamines, oral decongestants, intra-nasal/ophthalmic decongestants, ophthalmic antihistamines, mast cell stabilisers and immunotherapy). Level of evidence: "D"

A systematic review 1 was abstracted in DARE. The authors conclude that immunotherapy and intra nasal sodium chromoglycate and beclomethasone should be considered as first line therapy for pregnant women with allergic rhinitis. First generation and second generation antihistamines have not been incriminated as human teratogens. First generation antihistamines are favoured because of longer experience. Oral, intranasal and ophthalmic decongestants should be considered as second line therapy although further studies are needed to clarify their foetal safety.

    References

    • Mazzotta P, Loebstein R, Koren G. Treating allergic rhinitis in pregnancy. Safety considerations. Drug Saf 1999 Apr;20(4):361-75. [PubMed] [DARE]

Primary/Secondary Keywords