In the management of preeclampsia, which combination lists seizure prophylaxis and first-line antihypertensive?

• A. Magnesium sulfate and Hydralazine
• B. Magnesium sulfate and Labetalol
• C. Diazepam and Hydralazine
• D. Phenytoin and Nifedipine

Answer: (A)

In preeclampsia, the priority is to prevent seizures and rapidly control dangerous blood pressure. Magnesium sulfate is the drug of choice for seizure prophylaxis in preeclampsia and eclampsia because it stabilizes neuronal membranes and reduces cerebral excitability, lowering the risk of progression to seizures. For severe hypertension in pregnancy, an IV antihypertensive that works quickly is essential, and hydralazine fits that role as a first-line option due to its potent vasodilating effect and rapid BP reduction with careful monitoring.

So pairing magnesium sulfate with hydralazine directly addresses both major risks—neuroprotection to prevent seizures and prompt BP control. Other choices mix in agents that aren’t standard seizure prophylaxis in this context (such as diazepam or phenytoin) or pair magnesium with an alternative antihypertensive, but the combination described matches the typical, widely taught approach to this scenario.