Which antihypertensive medications are contraindicated during pregnancy?

Which antihypertensive medications are contraindicated during pregnancy?

• A. Beta blockers
• B. Calcium channel blockers
• C. Diuretics
• D. ARBs and ACE inhibitors

Answer: (D)

In pregnancy, avoid medications that can harm fetal development, especially those that interfere with kidney function. ACE inhibitors and ARBs block angiotensin II signaling, which the fetus relies on for proper kidney development and amniotic fluid production. This disruption can cause oligohydramnios and fetal renal injury, with potential neonatal complications after birth. The risk is particularly high in the later stages of pregnancy, so these drugs are contraindicated throughout pregnancy. If a patient becomes pregnant while taking them, they should be stopped and a safer antihypertensive chosen based on the clinical scenario. Beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics may be used with caution in pregnancy under medical supervision, but they do not carry the same level of fetal renal risk as ACE inhibitors and ARBs.

In pregnancy, avoid medications that can harm fetal development, especially those that interfere with kidney function. ACE inhibitors and ARBs block angiotensin II signaling, which the fetus relies on for proper kidney development and amniotic fluid production. This disruption can cause oligohydramnios and fetal renal injury, with potential neonatal complications after birth. The risk is particularly high in the later stages of pregnancy, so these drugs are contraindicated throughout pregnancy. If a patient becomes pregnant while taking them, they should be stopped and a safer antihypertensive chosen based on the clinical scenario. Beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics may be used with caution in pregnancy under medical supervision, but they do not carry the same level of fetal renal risk as ACE inhibitors and ARBs.