Which antihypertensive agent is considered safe and commonly used during pregnancy?

Which antihypertensive agent is considered safe and commonly used during pregnancy?

• A. Labetalol
• B. Lisinopril
• C. Enalapril
• D. Hydrochlorothiazide

Answer: (A)

In pregnancy, the safest and most practical approach is to use antihypertensives with solid fetal safety data and proven effectiveness to control blood pressure. Labetalol fits this well because it provides both alpha-1 blockade and beta-blockade, which lowers systemic vascular resistance without causing dramatic fetal heart rate changes. It has a long track record in obstetric care and is commonly chosen as a first-line agent for maternal hypertension during pregnancy. ACE inhibitors like lisinopril or enalapril are avoided in pregnancy due to the risk of fetal renal injury, oligohydramnios, and other congenital problems, especially after the first trimester. Diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide are not preferred as routine therapy in pregnancy because they can reduce placental perfusion and cause electrolyte disturbances, though they may be used in certain cases. Therefore, labetalol is the best answer because it combines safety for the fetus with effective BP control and is widely used in this setting.

In pregnancy, the safest and most practical approach is to use antihypertensives with solid fetal safety data and proven effectiveness to control blood pressure. Labetalol fits this well because it provides both alpha-1 blockade and beta-blockade, which lowers systemic vascular resistance without causing dramatic fetal heart rate changes. It has a long track record in obstetric care and is commonly chosen as a first-line agent for maternal hypertension during pregnancy.

ACE inhibitors like lisinopril or enalapril are avoided in pregnancy due to the risk of fetal renal injury, oligohydramnios, and other congenital problems, especially after the first trimester. Diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide are not preferred as routine therapy in pregnancy because they can reduce placental perfusion and cause electrolyte disturbances, though they may be used in certain cases. Therefore, labetalol is the best answer because it combines safety for the fetus with effective BP control and is widely used in this setting.