Use of antihypertensive drugs during pregnancy and lactation

Cardiovasc Ther. 2008 Spring;26(1):38-49. doi: 10.1111/j.1527-3466.2007.00036.x.

Abstract

The decision to treat elevated arterial pressure in pregnancy depends on the risk and benefits imposed on the mother and the fetus. Treatment for mild-to-moderate hypertension during pregnancy may not reduce maternal or fetal risk. Severe hypertension, on the other hand, should be treated to decrease maternal risk. Methyldopa and beta-adrenoceptor antagonists have been used most extensively. In acute severe hypertension, intravenous labetalol or oral nifedipine are reasonable choices.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists / adverse effects
  • Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists / therapeutic use
  • Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / adverse effects
  • Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / therapeutic use
  • Adult
  • Antihypertensive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antihypertensive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Calcium Channel Blockers / adverse effects
  • Calcium Channel Blockers / therapeutic use
  • Diuretics / adverse effects
  • Diuretics / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced / drug therapy*
  • Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced / physiopathology
  • Lactation / physiology*
  • Pregnancy / physiology*
  • Renin-Angiotensin System / drug effects

Substances

  • Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists
  • Adrenergic beta-Antagonists
  • Antihypertensive Agents
  • Calcium Channel Blockers
  • Diuretics