From the Guidelines
Mometasone can be used during pregnancy when medically necessary, but it should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. The safety of mometasone during pregnancy is supported by its limited systemic absorption and the lack of evidence showing significant harm to developing fetuses 1. According to the FDA pregnancy risk categories, most intranasal corticosteroids, including mometasone, are given a Pregnancy Category C rating, but gestational risk has not been confirmed in observational human data 1.
Key Considerations
- Topical mometasone (creams, ointments, nasal sprays) is preferred over oral or inhaled forms during pregnancy as less medication enters the bloodstream.
- For nasal symptoms, the usual dose is 1-2 sprays in each nostril once daily.
- The safety profile of mometasone is based on its limited systemic absorption and lack of evidence showing significant harm to developing fetuses.
- However, high-dose or long-term systemic corticosteroid use during pregnancy has been associated with potential risks including low birth weight and adrenal suppression in newborns.
Recent Guidelines
A recent study published in 2016 recommends the use of topical corticosteroids, including mometasone, for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) maintenance therapy during pregnancy at recommended doses 1. The expert panel places value on maternal sinonasal inflammation control and quality of life during pregnancy while prioritizing fetal safety.
Recommendations
It is essential to inform your healthcare provider about your pregnancy before using any medication, as they can help weigh the benefits against potential risks for your specific situation and may recommend alternative treatments if appropriate. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible to minimize potential risks.
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
Mometasone Use in Pregnancy
- The safety of mometasone, a corticosteroid, during pregnancy has been evaluated in several studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- A study published in 2018 found that intranasal use of mometasone is safe during pregnancy, with no significant association with congenital organ malformations 2.
- The study suggested that the intranasal use of mometasone, as well as fluticasone furoate and budesonide, is safe if used at the recommended therapeutic dose after a proper medical evaluation 2.
- Another study published in 2003 found that mometasone furoate nasal spray is effective in relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including cough, but did not specifically address its use during pregnancy 3.
- A review of antenatal corticosteroids published in 2016 discussed the use of corticosteroids in pregnancies beyond 34 weeks of gestation, but did not provide specific information on mometasone 4.
- Studies published in 1998 and 2000 evaluated the safety and efficacy of mometasone furoate in treating allergic rhinitis, but did not address its use during pregnancy 5, 6.
- Overall, the available evidence suggests that mometasone may be safe to use during pregnancy, but it is essential to consult a healthcare provider to weigh the potential benefits and risks 2.
Key Findings
- No significant association with congenital organ malformations has been linked to intranasal use of mometasone 2.
- Mometasone furoate nasal spray is effective in relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including cough 3.
- The use of antenatal corticosteroids, including mometasone, should be carefully considered and individualized based on the specific circumstances of each pregnancy 4.
- Mometasone furoate has been shown to be well-tolerated and effective in treating allergic rhinitis, with minimal systemic activity 5, 6.