Pharmacological treatment of asthma and allergic diseases in pregnancy

Abstract

Allergy incidence in pregnancy is about 20% and frequently observed as rhinitis and asthma. Asthma often coexists with allergic rhinitis in adults, and severe nasal findings are present in one out of every three pregnant women. Asthma and allergic rhinitis may worsen or remain unchanged in pregnancy. Allergic reactions can also worsen the course of pregnancy. Appropriate drug selection should be made for asthma and other allergic diseases, and possible risks should be explained to the pregnant woman. Increased risk perception of drug use may cause the pregnant woman to stop taking the drug suddenly and the disease to worsen. The purpose of the treatment in pregnancy is controlling the mother's disease while ensuring a normal course of fetal development. Treatment should be started with the least number of drugs and the lowest dose possible. Inhaled beta-2 adrenergic agonists and theophylline can be used as bronchodilators during pregnancy. Chlorpheniramine, loratadine and cetirizine may be preferred in allergic conditions requiring antihistamine use. Prednisone and also pseudoephedrine can be used during pregnancy, if necessary. The use of alpha-adrenergic drugs other than pseudoephedrine and epinephrine should be avoided except for anaphylaxis.