NICE NG133

Pre-eclampsia & Eclampsia

BP control + seizure prophylaxis

BP control (target <135/85)

  • Labetalol 200 mg PO (or 20–50 mg IV bolus over 2 min, repeat q10 min, max 300 mg).
  • Nifedipine MR 10–20 mg PO (avoid sublingual — hypotension).
  • Hydralazine 5 mg IV over 5 min, repeat q20 min (max 20 mg).

Seizure prophylaxis / treatment

  • MgSO₄ 4 g IV loading over 5 min → 1 g/h IV maintenance for 24 h post-delivery/last seizure.
  • Monitor: RR ≥12, patellar reflexes present, urine output ≥25 mL/h.
  • Toxicity: calcium gluconate 1 g IV over 10 min.

Delivery

  • Deliver at 37/40 for pre-eclampsia without severe features; earlier if severe or HELLP.

Common mistakes

  • ACE inhibitors / ARBs in pregnancy → renal dysgenesis, oligohydramnios.
  • Sublingual nifedipine → precipitous hypotension.
  • Stopping MgSO₄ at delivery — continue 24 h post-partum.

For educational use only

Not medical advice. Verify dosing against the BNF and your local trust guidelines before prescribing.