Study of Methyl Dopa Versus Labetalol in Management of Preeclampsia and Gestational Hypertension

Abstract

Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of labetalol compared with methyldopa in the management of mild and moderate cases of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH).Methods: Eighty patients with PIH were randomly allocated to receive either labetalol (group A) or methyldopa (group B). Administration of drugs with respect to Age, Gravid Status, Blood Pressure, Urine albumin Levels, Side Effects, Drug dosage, Additional Treatment, Prolongation of Pregnancy, New born Screening Test (NST), mode of termination, Indication of caesarean section, Perinatal safety and APGAR scores were studied. The statistical level of significance was taken at P<0.05. Results:A labetalol has been very effective in control as well as earlier onset of action in patients with methyl dopa. With effective control of blood pressure, prevention of eclampsia and the pregnancy can be prolonged to achieve fetal maturity. Labetalol has lesser side effects when compared to methyldopa. Labetalol is not associated with adverse fetal effects in the immediate and late neonatal period. The chances of spontaneous onset of labor were greater in the labetalol group when compared to methyldopa group. Though there was no difference in the groups with regard to obstetric intervention. At clinically effective doses, both the drugs were found to be safe for the neonate. Conclusions:Labetalol is safer, quicker in achieving adequate control of blood pressure with considerable prolongation of the duration of pregnancy with fewer side effects on the mother as well as the neonate when used in the management hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.