Eficacia de la hidralazina versus nifedipino en el tratamiento de la preeclampsia: revisión sistemática

Abstract

Background: Among the most commonly used drugs in pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia are hydralazine and nifedipine. Their efficacy, as well as their onset of action, has been demonstrated to reach optimal levels. Their use is widespread, though not without concerns about adverse maternal and perinatal effects. Objective: To characterize the efficacy of hydralazine versus nifedipine in treating preeclampsia. Methodology: A systematic literature review was conducted involving searches in health databases, primarily PubMed, Elsevier, and SpringerLink, using predefined descriptors supported by Boolean operators such as AND and OR to optimize the searches. The PRISMA methodology was employed for screening and selection processes. All articles included were published after 2020 in English or Spanish as essential inclusion criteria. Sixty-four references met the established requirements, and 57 were included in the final bibliography. Results: Twelve articles met the screening and suitability processes according to the designed objectives. The onset of action of both medications varied depending on the doses. Hydralazine demonstrated a slightly faster onset compared to nifedipine. Regarding efficacy levels, both drugs showed optimal results. However, nifedipine was associated with a higher incidence of adverse effects. Conclusions: Hydralazine proved to be faster in its action. Both drugs achieved appropriate levels of efficacy, although nifedipine revealed a more significant number of adverse effects. Keywords: antihypertensives, hydralazine, hypertension, nifedipine, preeclampsia