I have had extremely mild asthma for the past eight years (no inhaler needed). I am now 24 weeks pregnant. About three weeks ago, I was having trouble breathing, so my doctor prescribed an inhaler. In the past week, my asthma has disappeared. I feel like my doctor overreacted and I don't want the baby to be exposed to this drug for the remainder of my pregnancy. Is it unsafe for me to discontinue taking this medication?
It is never a good idea to go off a drug without consulting your provider.
The goal of asthma therapy in pregnancy is to provide adequate oxygenation to the mother and baby. Before going off this medication, you should have pulmonary function studies to verify that you no longer need it.
It sounds like you do have mild asthma and the steroid inhaler is generally needed only in moderate disease. It is a long-acting drug, so you may not feel the effects of going off for a few days.
The bottom line is, while this is probably okay, you should consult with your physician.
