Clinical efficacy and safety profile of labetalol hydrochloride in the treatment of hypertension in pregnancy — systematic review

Abstract

Background According to the guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology and the European Society of Hypertension, diagnosis of hypertension in pregnancy based on absolute blood pressure values (systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mm Hg or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mm Hg). The main aim of therapy is to reduce the risk of progression to full-blown eclampsia and minimizing the adverse effects of treatment in a child.

Material and methods Evaluation of clinical efficacy based on the results of primary studies and secondary evidence found in the context of a systematic review. The following literature databases were searched systematically: Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library and others.

Results Finally 2 publications, corresponding to the systematic review of 24 clinical studies and one clinical trial (RCT) met the inclusion criteria for the efficacy analysis. Labetalol reduces blood pressure in about 30 minutes after drug application. Labetalol treatment was associated with rarely hypotension or caesarean compared to alternative therapies (e.g., diazoxide). The most common adverse reactions of labetalol are nausea, vomiting, flushing, slight dizziness, palpitations, shortness of breath and tingling in the body — usually mild/moderate.

Conclusions Labetalol has a proven efficacy in the treatment of hypertension in pregnant women with relatively favorable safety profile. Lack of effective treatment of hypertension in pregnant women is a life threatening for both mother and child.