Which antihypertensive drug class is contraindicated at any stage of pregnancy because it causes fetal renal failure, oligohydramnios, calvarial hypoplasia, and fetal growth restriction?

• A Labetalol
• B Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors ✓
• C Methyldopa
• D Extended-release nifedipine

Explanation

ACE inhibitors cross the placenta and block fetal angiotensin II formation, which is required for normal renal development and fetal renal perfusion. The result is fetopathy including oligohydramnios, renal dysgenesis, calvarial hypoplasia, and growth restriction, so they are avoided entirely in pregnancy. Labetalol, methyldopa, and extended-release nifedipine are all established first-line oral antihypertensives in pregnancy with long safety records. ARBs carry the same fetal risk profile as ACE inhibitors and are equally contraindicated.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 25th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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