[Gemstone]

This isn't a question regarding psych related medication so I hope this is okay.

I'm not pregnant yet, but am about to start trying. I've already had this conversation with my doctor, but he is one of those "don't questions my wisdom" doctors, and he kind of cut me off.

Basically I'm on the fringe right now with my asthma symptoms, and require a rescue inhaler (albuterol) 2-3x per week. I'm not currently on any cortico-steriods, and only use either high dose inhaled cortico-steriods or prednisone if I have a bad flare.

The doctor said that I should take daily cortico-steriods after I get pregnant to cut down on the symptoms. He said its better to take the steriods rather than using the albuterol so much.

I guess I'm questioning this. Larry could you help? Are the daily cortico-steriods safer than the 2-3x weekly albuterol? Would another choice be safer like theopheline or a long acting bronchodialtor like serevent?

I just want to do whats best for the baby.

[drummergrl]

You'd be better off discussing this with an OB/GYN then anyone else. They would know better. You do have one, don't you? Plz try them. They are specialists who deal with the effects of meds. on unborn, or about to become pregnant babys.

[Larry_Hoover]

The Motherisk program at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto has the following article: http://www.motherisk.org/women/updat...content_id=296

I think it answers the questions you're asking.

Take care,

Lar

I agree with drummergirl. Talk to your OBGYN. There are certain time periods during pregnancy in which you can take meds safely and times when you can't. It depends on the development stage of the pregnacy. I used albuteral during my pregnacy occasionally. After I became prego I did not need it because somehow my hormones improved my asthma. (And my psyc problems) I am mot a doctor though and I incourage you to talk to one.

[Gemstone]

Thanks Larry. That article is very helpful. It sounds like the doctors advice is probably best.

I've already seen the OBGYN and she said too talk to my pulmonologist about what is best (which is the doctor I was talking about above). I was just questioning if his advice was really the best option, but it seems that the medications aren't as harmful to the baby as the asthma symptoms themselves.