The Daily PANCE and PANRE Question 16

A patient warrants antihypertensive medication use for the duration of her pregnancy. Which of the following is an antihypertensive recommended for such patients?

  1. alpha-methyldopa
  2. captopril
  3. chlorthalidone
  4. propranolol
  5. clonidine

Answer: A

Alpha-methyldopa

For the initial treatment of high blood pressure in pregnancy, these are the most commonly used and recommended medications:

  • Labetalol (Normodyne, Trandate)
  • Nifedipine (Procardia, Adalat)
  • Methyldopa (Aldomet)

Methyldopa has been used for decades to treat high blood pressure in pregnancy and it appears to be safe. Labetalol has been extensively studied and has become increasingly prescribed in pregnancy. Labetalol is now commonly used as a first-line treatment choice. Nifedipine is also sometimes used in certain situations.

ACEIs (captopril) are contraindicated in pregnancy. Propranolol can be used but may cause growth restriction. Diuretics are not used in pregnancy. Calcium channel blockers and centrally acting agents (while not contraindicated) should be avoided.

Know Your Content Blueprint

Hypertension disorders in pregnancy are covered in the NCCPA Content Blueprint Reproductive System (8%)

Learn more about hypertension disorders in pregnancy and take the lesson: hypertension disorders in pregnancy