Can you take claritin while pregnant in first trimester

Written by our resident Pharmacist, Yeniset Santana.

Antihistamines are a common over the counter medication that most of us have used at one time or another, but are they safe for use during pregnancy?

The answer depends on which ones you use, whether they have been prescribed by a doctor or not and how long you intend to use them for.

The most common use for antihistamines is in the treatment of allergy symptoms, but they are also used for insomnia, travel sickness and nausea.

Some are even prescribed for morning sickness.

Let’s look at which antihistamines are used for different types of symptoms, which are safe to use in pregnancy and which should be avoided.

Understanding Antihistamines

H1 antihistamines are classified as either 1st generation (sedating) or 2nd generation (non-sedating).

Sometimes, H1 antihistamines are indicated to promote sleep and to control nausea.

Common H1 Antihistamines Widely Used Around the Globe

1st Generation:

Loratadine
Hydroxyzine
Chlorpheniramine
Clemastine
Diphenhydramine
Doxylamine
Meclizine

2nd Generation:

Cetirizin

is claritin okay to take when pregnant

is claritin ok to take when pregnant