Fetal safety of calcium channel blockers

Question

Many of my pregnant or lactating patients are taking calcium channel blockers (CCBs) for hypertension. How safe is maternal use of CCBs for fetuses and nursing infants?

Answer

Generally, CCBs have not been shown to increase teratogenic risk. Information regarding the safety of CCBs during lactation is limited, although they are not likely to pose a risk to the nursing infant.