Control of preeclamptic hypertension by ketanserin, a new serotonin receptor antagonist

We investigated the effect of peripheral serotonin receptor blockade on preeclamptic hypertension in 20 postpartum patients by the use of ketanserin, a serotonin receptor antagonist. In a study consisting of a double-blind crossover with placebo, parenteral ketanserin significantly reduced blood pressure from 167 105to 126 71mm Hg compared to a decline from 157 98to 150 91mm Hg for the placebo (p < 0.001). All patients became hypertensive again following infusion, although no abrupt rebound in pressure occurred. Side effects were minimal. The results demonstrate that preeclamptic hypertension can be controlled by ketanserin and suggest that serotonin may have a role in the modulation of preeclampsia.