Which medication is commonly prescribed to manage hypertension during pregnancy?

Labetalol is commonly prescribed to manage hypertension during pregnancy because it is both an alpha- and beta-adrenergic antagonist, which allows it to effectively lower blood pressure while causing minimal adverse effects on the fetus. This medication works by relaxing blood vessels and decreasing heart rate, thereby reducing blood pressure in a safe manner during pregnancy. Additionally, labetalol has a well-established safety profile for use in pregnant patients, making it a preferred choice among healthcare providers when treating conditions like gestational hypertension and preeclampsia.

Other medications such as aspirin are not used to manage hypertension specifically; rather, low-dose aspirin may be prescribed to reduce the risk of preeclampsia in high-risk women. Hydrochlorothiazide is generally avoided during pregnancy due to potential adverse effects and lack of evidence supporting its safety and efficacy. Enalapril is contraindicated in pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters, as it can cause serious complications for the developing fetus. Thus, labetalol remains the most appropriate and effective choice for managing hypertension during pregnancy.