There are many

antihistamines, such as Allegra, Benadryl, Claritin, Tavist and Zyrtek.

Antihistamines work by blunting the body's response to "allergens"

like pollen, dust, etc. Side effects can include drowsiness.

Most over-the-counter

cold and allergy medications are a combination of both decongestant and

antihistamine. Look at the list of active ingredients on the back of any

over-the-counter medication and you will see a dizzying array of completely

unpronounceable words. These merely represent the combinations.

Overall, antihistamines

have not been shown to be harmful during pregnancy. Decongestants, however,

have been associated with physical defects noted in the offspring of laboratory

rats who had been exposed to levels of drug that far exceeded the recommended

dosage.

Although no

one has proven that decongestants cause problems with human fetuses, it

is advised that pregnant women use these medications only if necessary,

and no more than the recommended dosage. If you have specific questions

about your medication, ask your physician.

Pregnancy can

be long and uncomfortable, much like Georgia allergy season. Fortunately,

most allergy medications will relieve your symptoms and not harm your

unborn child. Using both antihistamines and decongestants with caution

and within the recommended dosages will help expectant mothers breathe

more easily.

Audrey F. Miller,

M.D., FACOG

Peachtree City

Obstetrics and

Gynecology

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