zyrtec and pregnancy

  I'm hoping you can help me with a rather urgent delimma. My wife has recurring cases of chronic urticaria, the cause(s) of which we are still trying to discover. She has been taking zyrtec to control the hives, which has worked quite well for her.  However, we are trying to get pregnant and have been warned against using zyrtec during the pregnancy.  Is there a danger with taking zyrtec during pregnancy?  If so, how can she control her hives while pregnant having not yet discovered the cause(s) of the reactions.  Also, do you have any suggestions for tracking down the true reasons for her hive outbreaks?  She just did some tests at the hospital, as per our doctor's directions, (blood, urine, thyroid), and we are still awaiting the results.  Is there anything else we can try?  Your response would be very much appreciated.  Thank you.
  
  Sincerely,
  Andy

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Hi Andy.  Zyrtec is listed as a category B drug for pregnancy in the Physician's Desk Reference, a book which lists drugs and information about them.  Category B drugs have been tested in animals with no bad effects on baby animals.  There are no trials on pregnant women.  Many medicines commonly used in pregnancy fall in this category.  Continue with your doctor to pursue the reasons for the chronic urticaria.  there are many possible reasons for this.  Sounds like you are into the process.

This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.  Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific problem.

Keyword:drugs in pregnancy-Zyrtec