Which statement about ACE inhibitors during pregnancy is true?

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Multiple Choice

Which statement about ACE inhibitors during pregnancy is true?

Explanation:
ACE inhibitors disrupt angiotensin II formation, which is essential for fetal kidney development and function. In pregnancy, this can cause reduced fetal urine output, leading to oligohydramnios, fetal growth restriction, limb and craniofacial abnormalities, and even fetal death, especially after mid-pregnancy. Because of these serious fetal risks, ACE inhibitors are contraindicated during pregnancy. They can also cause maternal hyperkalemia, further underscoring why they are avoided. If hypertension must be managed in pregnancy, safer alternatives include labetalol, methyldopa, hydralazine, or nifedipine, chosen based on the clinical scenario.

ACE inhibitors disrupt angiotensin II formation, which is essential for fetal kidney development and function. In pregnancy, this can cause reduced fetal urine output, leading to oligohydramnios, fetal growth restriction, limb and craniofacial abnormalities, and even fetal death, especially after mid-pregnancy. Because of these serious fetal risks, ACE inhibitors are contraindicated during pregnancy. They can also cause maternal hyperkalemia, further underscoring why they are avoided. If hypertension must be managed in pregnancy, safer alternatives include labetalol, methyldopa, hydralazine, or nifedipine, chosen based on the clinical scenario.

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