Fetal and neonatal effects of the beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents

The placental transfer of beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents has been well established in the last years. Randomized and/or controlled studies have given a less pessimistic view of the consequences of these drugs on the fetal and neonatal adaptation. In fact, the beta-blockers are able to produce hypotension, bradycardia, respiratory troubles in the newborn infant, troubles which are generally slight when the neonates are full-term. However, even if in good clinical conditions, this kind of neonate should be carefully monitored for at least the first 2 days of life.