labetalol

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Decisions about medication use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be made with your healthcare provider.

Can taking labetalol affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?

It is not known whether labetalol can make it harder to get pregnant. If you have questions about fertility while taking this medication, it's best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Does taking labetalol increase the risk of miscarriage?

Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons. Based on the studies reviewed, it is not known whether labetalol can increase the chance for miscarriage. Any concerns about miscarriage risk should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Does taking labetalol increase the risk of birth defects?

Every pregnancy starts with a background risk of 3–5% for birth defects. Information on labetalol use in pregnancy is limited, but available information does not suggest that it increases the chance of birth defects. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the benefits of treating your condition against any potential risks.

Can taking labetalol during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?

Most studies do not suggest that labetalol increases the chance of preterm delivery, low birth weight, or stillbirth. There have been some reports of temporary beta-blockade symptoms in newborns exposed in late pregnancy (such as slowed heart rate, low blood pressure, or low blood sugar), usually resolving within about 3 days, and rare reports of more severe symptoms appearing about a week after birth. It has been suggested that preterm infants with long-term labetalol exposure be carefully monitored during the first week after birth, and your healthcare provider can advise on appropriate monitoring.

Can taking labetalol during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?

Based on the studies reviewed, it is not known whether labetalol increases the chance for behavior or learning issues. One study of 32 children ages 3–7 found no differences in learning and behavior testing compared to unexposed children, while another study found a higher chance of ADHD in children exposed to labetalol or another blood pressure medication during pregnancy. These questions are best discussed with your healthcare provider.

Is it safe to breastfeed while taking labetalol?

Labetalol passes into breastmilk in small amounts and is not expected to cause problems in full-term breastfed infants. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about your individual breastfeeding questions and circumstances.

Source: National Library of Medicine