A pregnant woman with newly diagnosed gestational hypertension needs antihypertensive treatment. Which drug is usually first-line in NICE guidance?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Labetalol
- Step 1: Many antihypertensives are unsafe in pregnancy. Step 2. Labetalol is first-line, with nifedipine an alternative, for example if asthma makes labetalol unsuitable. Answer: Labetalol. Why not the others: ACE inhibitors are teratogenic. Atenolol is associated with fetal growth restriction. Thiazides can reduce plasma volume and are not preferred.
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