Is it safe to take asthma medication during pregnancy?

Any medication you take during pregnancy can potentially have risks. Some concerns have been raised about the use of systemic glucocorticoids — a type of steroid — during pregnancy. They have been linked with an increased risk of infant oral clefts, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, low birth weight and adrenal problems. However, most asthma medications can be safely used during pregnancy.

Also, it's safer to take asthma medications during pregnancy than it is to experience asthma symptoms or an asthma attack. If you're having trouble breathing, your baby might not get enough oxygen.

If you need medication to control your asthma symptoms during pregnancy, your health care provider will prescribe the safest medication at the most appropriate dosage. Take the medication as prescribed. Don't stop taking the medication or adjust the dosage on your own. Depending on the type of medication you're taking and your symptoms, your health care provider might be able to monitor your asthma control during your prenatal visits. In other cases, you might need to consult your family doctor or asthma specialist throughout the pregnancy.