RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Is it safe to use inhaled corticosteroids in pregnancy?
JF Canadian Family Physician
JO Can Fam Physician
FD The College of Family Physicians of Canada
SP 809
OP 812
VO 60
IS 9
A1 Laura Smy
A1 Alvin C.H. Chan
A1 Pina Bozzo
A1 Gideon Koren
YR 2014
UL http://www.cfp.ca/content/60/9/809.abstract
AB Question A healthy woman with mild to moderate asthma came to my clinic today after learning that she was pregnant. She inquired about continuing her inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) medication and whether there would be any risks to her unborn child if she were to do so. What would you advise? Answer Given the published evidence, ICSs should be continued throughout pregnancy at low to moderate doses sufficient to control asthma symptoms and prevent exacerbations. However, caution must be taken with doses greater than 1000 µg/d (chlorofluorocarbon beclomethasone equivalent), although whether such doses cause adverse effects is currently still questionable. Patient education on proper ICS administration and adherence, including during the first trimester, must be ongoing. Well controlled asthma will reduce the need for higher ICS doses and possible exposure to systemic corticosteroids, and might decrease the risk of adverse pregnancy or perinatal outcomes.