What condition is propranolol commonly prescribed for during pregnancy?

Propranolol is a beta-blocker that is often prescribed for hypertension, a condition characterized by elevated blood pressure. During pregnancy, managing blood pressure is crucial to prevent complications such as preeclampsia, placental abruption, and intrauterine growth restriction. Propranolol works by reducing heart rate and the force of heart contractions, ultimately leading to lower blood pressure.

While it is used in some contexts for other conditions, the predominant application during pregnancy is in the management of hypertension. This is particularly important given the potential risks associated with uncontrolled high blood pressure in pregnant individuals. As a result, propranolol's effectiveness and safety profile for this purpose make it a common choice for treating hypertension during pregnancy.