Beta blocker therapy in 125 cases of hypertension during pregnancy.

Over a period of 4 years, a team of obstetricians and nephrologists have used beta-blockers in the treatment of hypertension in high risk pregnancies. One hundred and twenty one patients (125 pregnancies) were treated with this new therapeutic approach: Acebutolol (56 cases), Pindolol (38 cases) and Atenolol (31 cases) were used. In our group of patients, 56% (70/121) had a previous record of hypertension. Treatment was started when diastolic pressure reached 90 mmHg. The mothers showed excellent tolerance and in 95% of cases blood pressure was controlled in a satisfactory manner. Three groups of new-born infants were defined. In 20 infants, the weight was less than 2.5, in 15 infants between 2.5 and 2.8 kg, and in 90 infants more than 2.8 kg. There was no evidence of low Apgar scores, bradycardia or hypotension in the infants. The importance of team management of the patient is emphasised.