Abstract
Answer B. Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers, such as labetalol and atenolol, are the most used antihypertensive agents in the postpartum period. Their combined effect of vasodilation, modulation of the cardiac sympathetic response and modest decrease in renin synthesis all contribute to their antihypertensive effect. Asthma and known cardiac failure are relative contraindications. Atenolol has the added advantage of a once-daily dosing schedule, which is useful to increase medication compliance. Neonatal beta-blockade is a theoretical risk owing to its presence in breastmilk, however the risk of this is low in routine clinical practice.
InnovAiT article: Pre-eclampsia and hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. DOI: 10.1177/17557380211050655.