The effect of labetalol versus placebo on arterial pressure and forearm venous tone in women with pregnancy induced hypertension

Abstract

26 patients with mild to moderate pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH), were treated for 5-7 days with labetalol 100mg three times a day or with a placebo. The labetalol group showed a statistically significant decrease in their mean arterial blood pressure (P<0.05) and forearm venous tone (P<0.05). Whereas the placebo group (bed rest only) had an insignificant fall in their mean arterial pressure and a statistically significant rise in their forearm venous tone. Labetalol is a suitable agent for reducing both the arterial and venous tone in patients with PIH. Possible mechanisms are discussed.