Abstract

Background: Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), a common medical problem, is a major cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. The aim of the study was to compare the obstetric outcomes of methyldopa and labetalol in the management of PIH.  Methods: A total of 120 patients having PIH were included and were divided into two groups. Group A: Methyldopa and Group B: Labetalol, doses as needed. Pre- and post-treatment blood pressure was measured on day 2nd, 7th and day 21st and was compared. Reductions in blood pressure, obstetric outcomes, and side effects of methyldopa and labetalol were observed.  Results: Mean Blood pressure in group A: Pre-treatment - 157/104±10 mmHg, on the 2nd day - 137/89±10 mmHg, on the 7th day - 127/85±10 mmHg, and on the 21st day - 120/78±10 mmHg. In group B, mean blood pressure was: pre-treatment 162/108±10 mmHg, on the 2nd day 130/84±10 mmHg, on the 7th day 122/80±10 mmHg, and on the 21st day 115/74±10 mmHg. No significant difference was found between the two groups (p>0.05). It was observed that about 25% of spontaneous vaginal deliveries occurred with methyldopa users and 35% among labetalol users. Regarding induced deliveries, 22% were with methyldopa and 28% with labetalol. And, LUCS had to be done in 53% with methyldopa and 37% with labetalol. Preterm deliveries were 35% with methyldopa and 30% with labetalol.  Conclusion: Methyldopa and Labetalol have effectively controlled blood pressure in PIH patients, but no significant difference was observed between the two groups.

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