Can a common water pill keep blood pressure in check after childbirth?

NCT ID NCT03298802

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a 14-day course of hydrochlorothiazide (a water pill) could prevent high blood pressure from returning after delivery in women with preeclampsia or gestational hypertension. Over 450 women were planned, but the trial was stopped early. The main goals were to see if the drug reduced hospital readmissions or the need for extra blood pressure medication.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

hydrochlorothiazide (a water pill to lower blood pressure)

What this could lead to

If it worked, this could offer a simple, short-term way to prevent blood pressure spikes after childbirth, reducing hospital visits.

What could go wrong

The trial was terminated early, so results are limited. It's unclear if the drug is effective or safe for this specific use.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

hypertension, pregnancy-induced preeclampsia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • St. David's North Austin Medical Center

    Austin, Texas, 78758, United States

  • University of Texas Medical Branch

    Galveston, Texas, 77555, United States