Fetal death following labetalol administration in pre-eclampsia.

Labetalol (Trandate) 50 mg i.v. was administered to a pre-eclamptic primigravida with an asphytic fetus prior to cesarean section, in order to reduce the risk of excessive increase in blood pressure during induction of anesthesia. Blood pressure fell rapidly from 170/110 to 115/85 mmHg. A dead infant was born. Oral labetalol is arguably a suitable remedy for pre-eclampsia, but if i.v. administration is necessary, an initial dose of 5-10 mg is recommended.