Which medication is commonly used to prevent pregnancy-induced hypertension?

Aspirin therapy is commonly used to prevent pregnancy-induced hypertension, specifically in women who are at high risk for developing preeclampsia. Research has indicated that low-dose aspirin taken during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy can help reduce the risk of this condition, which is characterized by high blood pressure and potential damage to other organ systems.

The mechanism by which aspirin operates in this context is primarily related to its antiplatelet effects, as it inhibits the aggregation of platelets and decreases the likelihood of vascular complications that may lead to hypertension during pregnancy. Using this preventive strategy is particularly beneficial for women with risk factors such as a history of hypertension, obesity, diabetes, or a previous diagnosis of preeclampsia.

Other options like calcium supplements are generally recommended for overall bone health and may help to some extent with blood pressure regulation, but they are not specifically indicated for preventing maternity-related hypertension. Magnesium sulfate is used primarily for treating severe hypertension and preventing seizures in preeclampsia or eclampsia, not for prevention. Nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker, is often used to treat high blood pressure but is not a standard preventive measure for pregnancy-induced hypertension.