Delivery of the baby and placenta is the only cure for preeclampsia. As such, the goal of medical management is to reduce the risks for both parent and baby until the time of delivery. The treatments used to meet this goal depend on gestational age and the severity of the condition.[1][2][3]
If preeclampsia is diagnosed at term (≥ 37 weeks of gestation), labor is induced, usually with the medication pitocin (oxytocin). When preeclampsia is diagnosed preterm and no severe features are present, the parent and fetus are closely monitored (e.g., ultrasounds, blood pressure, bloodwork, fetal nonstress tests). Labor is induced at 37 weeks of gestation, unless severe features develop, in which case medications and/or a preterm delivery (before 34 weeks of gestation) may be necessary.[4]
Blood pressure medications, such as hydralazine, labetalol, and nifedipine[5], may be given when blood pressure elevations are severe (usually systolic ≥ 160 mmHg and/or diastolic ≥ 110 mmHg).[6][5] During and after delivery, magnesium sulfate may be used to prevent seizures.[7][8][9]
Low-dose aspirin therapy may prevent preeclampsia from developing in people at high-risk for this condition. Treatment usually begins before 16 weeks of gestation and continues throughout pregnancy.[10][6]PMDI:17443552