Table 3.

Antihypertensive drugs in pregnancy

1st choiceAlternative first-lineSecond-lineThird-lineContraindicated in pregnancy
LabetalolNifedipine (MR)MethyldopaDoxazosinACE inhibitors (safe when breastfeeding*)
AmlodipineHydralazineAngiotensin II receptor antagonists Spironolactone
Selective β-blockers
  • *Avoid in acute kidney injury. Enalapril and captopril are the preferred agents, as safety data are limited for other drugs in this class.

  • ACE = angiotensin-converting enzyme; MR = modified release