Diuretics are now rarely used in pregnancy. In the past, they were used for the edema that usually accompanied pre-eclampsia, but the agents available then were not very potent.

It is now known that diuretics have adverse fetal and maternal effects, including fetal growth retardation, maternal hypotension and electrolyte disturbances. Also, diuretics will not prevent the development of preeclampsia. It should not be used unless clearly indicated -- fluid in the lungs or heart failure.

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