From the Guidelines
Claritin (loratadine) is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, particularly compared to older antihistamines, as it has been classified as FDA Pregnancy Category B and has extensive safety data from years of use. The safety of second-generation antihistamines, including loratadine, has been confirmed through large birth registries, case-control studies, and cohort studies, as noted in the study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 1.
When considering the use of antihistamines during pregnancy, it's essential to weigh the benefits against potential risks. Loratadine is preferred during pregnancy because it doesn't cross the blood-brain barrier significantly, resulting in minimal sedation and fewer anticholinergic effects. The standard adult dose is 10 mg once daily. However, it's always best to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed to control symptoms.
Some studies suggest caution with certain antihistamines, such as hydroxyzine, which should be used cautiously during the first trimester based on animal data 1. Additionally, oral decongestants should be avoided during the first trimester, while topical decongestants may have a better safety profile when used on a short-term basis 1.
It's also worth noting that other guidelines, such as those published in the British Journal of Dermatology, recommend avoiding all antihistamines in pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, although none has been shown to be teratogenic in humans 1. However, the most recent and highest-quality study, published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, confirms the safety of second-generation antihistamines, including loratadine, during pregnancy 1.
Key points to consider:
- Claritin (loratadine) is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy
- Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed to control symptoms
- Consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy
- Avoid oral decongestants during the first trimester
- Consider alternative options, such as topical decongestants, for short-term use during the first trimester.
From the FDA Drug Label
If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Safety of Claritin During Pregnancy
- Claritin, also known as loratadine, is a second-generation antihistamine used to treat allergic rhinitis.
- According to studies, loratadine is considered safe to use during pregnancy 2, 3.
- A 2016 study published in The American journal of the medical sciences states that second-generation antihistamines, including loratadine, are safe to use during pregnancy 2.
- A 2022 study published in Auris, nasus, larynx also confirms that loratadine is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy 3.
Comparison with Other Medications
- Other studies have compared the safety of loratadine with other medications, including first-generation antihistamines and oral decongestants 4.
- A 1999 study published in Drug safety found that first-generation and second-generation antihistamines, including loratadine, have not been incriminated as human teratogens 4.
- However, it is noted that there were no controlled trials with loratadine in human pregnancy at the time of the study 4.
Precautions and Recommendations
- While loratadine is considered safe, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy.
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women should only take medications that are necessary and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- It is crucial to weigh the benefits and risks of taking any medication during pregnancy and to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider 2, 3.