skip to main content

Hypertension in pregnancy — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateCardiovascular TherapeuticsHypertension in pregnancyGPhC CRA

A 33-year-old woman who is 10 weeks pregnant presents with a new prescription for ramipril for hypertension. She was previously treated with ramipril before conception and has no drug allergies. What is the most appropriate alternative?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Contact the prescriber to change to labetalol if suitable

ACE inhibitors such as ramipril should be avoided in pregnancy because of fetal risk, particularly after the first trimester. Labetalol is commonly used for hypertension in pregnancy when appropriate. The pharmacist should contact the prescriber rather than supply unchanged. Alternate-day dosing does not remove the pregnancy safety concern.

Reference: NICE CKS; BNF