The Basics
What is Hydralazine?
Used to treat high blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily through the body
Brand names for Hydralazine
Apresoline
How Hydralazine is classified
Antihypertensive Agents, Vasodilator Agents
Hydralazine During Pregnancy
Hydralazine pregnancy category
Category CNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Hydralazine while pregnant
Animal studies indicate that hydralazine is teratogenic in mice at 20 to 30 times the maximum daily human dose of 200 to 300 mg and possibly in rabbits at 10 to 15 times the maximum daily human dose, but that it is nonteratogenic in rats. Teratogenic effects observed were cleft palate and malformations of facial and cranial bones. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Although clinical experience does not include any positive evidence of adverse effects on the human fetus, hydralazine should be used during pregnancy only if the expected benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Taking Hydralazine While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Hydralazine?
Limited milk level and infant serum level data and a long history of use in postpartum mothers indicate that hydralazine is an acceptable antihypertensive in nursing mothers, even those nursing newborns.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Limited milk level and infant serum level data and a long history of use in postpartum mothers indicate that hydralazine is an acceptable antihypertensive in nursing mothers, even those nursing newborns.
Possible effects of Hydralazine on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Hydralazine
Enalapril, Hydrochlorothiazide, Methyldopa, Propranolol.
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Liedholm H, Wahlin-Boll E, Hanson A et al. Transplacental passage and breast milk concentration of hydralazine. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1982;21:417-9. PMID: 7200428
2. Lamont RF, Elder MG. Transfer of hydralazine across the placenta and into breast milk. J Obstet Gynaecol. 1986;7:47-8.
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
