[Treatment of arterial hypertension with propranolol in pregnant women. 10 cases]

Abstract

Ten hypertensive patients were treated with propranolol throughout pregnancy. Propranolol had a favorable effect on blood pressure and perhaps on other signs of pre-eclampsia too. No increase in uterine contractility, causing premature delivery, was noted. Weight at birth and APGAR index in infants was apparently not unfavorably influenced. Cardiac rhythm and blood glucose levels at birth were not studied. Theoretical risks of beta-blockers during pregnancy (premature delivery, danger to the foetus) may be overestimated and should be reevaluated in a prospective way.