Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that affects up to 8% of all pregnant women worldwide. It is characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs, primarily the liver and kidneys.

If left untreated, it can lead to life-threatening complications for both the mother and her unborn child.

Unfortunately, there are currently no drugs specifically approved for the treatment of preeclampsia. However, recent research has identified two drugs that show potential in managing this condition.

Let’s take a closer look at what these drugs are and how they work.

1. Aspirin

Aspirin is a common pain reliever that has been used for over a century. It is also a blood thinner, which means it can help prevent blood clots from forming.

This is why doctors often recommend low-dose aspirin for people who have had a heart attack or stroke, as it lowers the risk of a second event.

In the case of preeclampsia, aspirin has been shown to reduce the risk of developing this condition in high-risk women.

A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that taking low-dose aspirin (81 mg/day) starting from 12-28 weeks of pregnancy until delivery reduced the risk of preeclampsia by 62% in women at high risk of this condition.

However, aspirin is not a cure for preeclampsia, and it may not work for all women. Additionally, high doses of aspirin can cause bleeding and other side effects, so it should only be taken under medical supervision.

2. Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. It is also an antioxidant, which means it can neutralize harmful molecules called free radicals in the body. This is why melatonin supplements are often used to promote sleep and treat jet lag.

However, recent research has found that melatonin may also have a role in preventing and treating preeclampsia.

A study published in the journal Hypertension found that giving melatonin supplements to pregnant rats reduced their risk of developing high blood pressure and liver damage, two hallmarks of preeclampsia.

The researchers believe that melatonin works by improving the function of the placenta, the organ that nourishes the developing fetus.

Preeclampsia is thought to occur when the placenta fails to develop properly, leading to inflammation and oxidative stress in the mother’s body.

While these results are promising, more research is needed to confirm that melatonin is safe and effective for use in pregnant women. Currently, there are no guidelines for using melatonin to prevent or treat preeclampsia.

Conclusion

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that affects millions of women worldwide.

While there are no drugs specifically approved for the treatment of this condition, recent research has identified two drugs that show potential in managing preeclampsia.

Aspirin, a common pain reliever and blood thinner, has been shown to reduce the risk of developing preeclampsia in high-risk women.

Melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and has antioxidant properties, has been found to improve placental function and reduce the risk of preeclampsia in pregnant rats.

While both drugs are promising, more research is needed to determine their safety and effectiveness in pregnant women. As always, pregnant women should talk to their healthcare provider before taking any medication or supplements.