From the Research
Bromophed is not considered safe during pregnancy, and its use should be avoided, especially during the first trimester, due to potential risks to fetal development. The medication contains brompheniramine (an antihistamine) and pseudoephedrine (a decongestant), which have raised concerns about potential risks to fetal development in animal studies 1. Although there are no definitive human studies showing direct harm, the FDA classifies brompheniramine as Category C, meaning potential risks cannot be ruled out. Pseudoephedrine use during early pregnancy has been associated with a small increased risk of certain birth defects, including gastroschisis and small intestinal atresia.
Some studies have investigated the safety of other medications during pregnancy, such as acetaminophen, which is widely used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever 2, 3, 4. However, these studies do not provide direct evidence on the safety of Bromophed during pregnancy.
For pregnant women seeking cold or allergy relief, safer alternatives include:
- Saline nasal sprays
- Humidifiers
- Certain antihistamines like cetirizine or loratadine (after first trimester) that are considered pregnancy category B. Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy, as they can recommend the safest options based on your specific situation and stage of pregnancy.