While hydralazine, labetalol, methyldopa, nicardipine and
nifedipine may all have a role in treating hypertensive disorders during
pregnancy, it may be difficult for practitioners to determine which
agent should be first line. Unfortunately, there are not guidelines
for first-line treatments, and practice varies with region, severity of
disease, fetal and maternal status, and stage of gestation. The
side effect profiles, available dosage forms, pharmacokinetics, and
contraindications for use also determine which pharmacologic agents
may be appropriate for each patient, as outlined in table 4.