Risk for neonatal hypoglycaemia and bradycardia after beta-blocker use during pregnancy or lactation: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol.

Introduction: Beta-blockers are often used during pregnancy to treat diseases such as pre-existing hypertension, arrhythmias or pregnancy-related hypertension. Since beta-blockers are able to cross the placenta and can pass into breast milk, they could potentially harm the neonate. Known potential neonatal side effects of maternal beta-blocker use are hypoglycaemia and bradycardia.

The Risk for Neonatal Hypoglycemia and Bradycardia after Beta-Blocker Use during Pregnancy or Lactation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Beta-blockers are often used during pregnancy to treat cardiovascular diseases. The described neonatal side effects of maternal beta-blocker use are hypoglycemia and bradycardia, but the evidence base for these is yet to be evaluated comprehensively. Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the potential increased risk for hypoglycemia and bradycardia in neonates exposed to beta-blockers in utero or during lactation.