Is it safe to take sudafed while pregnant?

Yes: Sudafed is commonly used for swollen nasal tissue in pregnancy, or "rhinitis of pregnancy". Be careful with it if you have high blood pressure or anxiety issues, and realize it will dehydrate you somewhat. I like the 12 hour pills, and generally can only take one in the morning. Taking it in the evening frequently causes insomnia. For every sudafed tablet drink an additional 12 ounces of water.

Possibly: It is considered a category c medication in pregnancy which means animal studies are worrisome but human studies to date have shown no fetal risk.Always clear all medications with your OB to make sure they don't interact with another med you may be taking.

A little risky: Pseudoephedrine constricts blood vessels. One study showed an increased incidence (3.2%) of gastroschisis, a defect in the abdominal wall, in infants of mothers who took Pseudoephedrine during the first trimester. This can be seen on fetal ultrasound as early as 14 weeks.Please discuss risks vs. Benefits with your ob.