A clinical study published by the National Library of Medicine examined 690 infertile men with idiopathic asthenoteratospermia who received selenium (200 μg) and vitamin E (400 units) daily for at least 100 days. The study found a 52.6% improvement in sperm motility and morphology, with 10.8% of cases resulting in spontaneous pregnancy. While 36.6% of participants showed no response to treatment, the combination therapy with selenium and vitamin E demonstrated statistically significant improvements in semen quality and spontaneous conception rates (P ≤ 0.001).

These findings suggest that selenium, in combination with vitamin E, may enhance sperm motility and morphology, offering hope for couples struggling with male infertility.

Meanwhile, a clinical study from the National Library of Medicine suggests that selenium (Se) supplementation may improve reproductive efficiency in women with fertility issues, particularly those undergoing IVF. Maintaining normal Se levels could help prevent complications like preterm birth, preeclampsia, and high antibody rates in women with autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD). Selenium’s antioxidant properties may also reduce oxidative stress in follicular fluid. However, further research is needed to clarify its overall impact on female fertility and the effects of high Se concentrations.

Selenium may also provide benefits for women with PCOS. A review of seven clinical trials published between 2015 and 2022, as cited by ScienceDirect, suggests that selenium supplementation can serve as an adjunct therapy for PCOS management. The trials concluded that selenium helps reduce lipid peroxidation and inflammation, both of which are common complications in PCOS patients. Additionally, selenium may improve insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for managing metabolic disturbances associated with PCOS.

While these findings are promising, experts emphasize the need for larger and longer-duration randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to fully assess selenium’s long-term effects on PCOS-related cardiometabolic risk factors.

As awareness grows, integrating selenium into a holistic approach to reproductive health may pave the way for better fertility solutions, offering hope to many Filipino couples seeking to start a family. Delex Pharma distributes Multivitamins + Selenium (EC-VIT), a supplement containing the essential mineral selenium. EC-VIT is available on Shopee, Lazada, and in Mercury Drug branches nationwide, making it more accessible to those looking to support their reproductive health.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential polyunsaturated fats found in fatty fish, fish oil supplements, and certain plant-based sources. DHA and EPA are particularly important during pregnancy due to their impact on fetal development and maternal health.

DHA is a key structural component of the brain and retina. Adequate maternal DHA intake is associated with enhanced cognitive and visual development in infants. Research suggests that higher DHA levels in pregnant women correlate with improved neurodevelopmental outcomes in children.

Meanwhile, one of the unique components of OBNate IQ Plus is Taurine, making it the only prenatal and postnatal supplement in the Philippines with Taurine. It is a sulfur-containing amino acid found in high concentrations in the brain, heart, and skeletal muscles. It plays a vital role in fetal development and supports maternal health during pregnancy. Additionally, it aids neurotransmission and protects neurons from oxidative stress, both of which are essential for brain development.

According to clinical studies, EPA has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the risk of preterm birth. Researches indicate that omega-3 supplementation can lower the incidence of early preterm birth by modulating inflammatory responses, thereby supporting full-term pregnancy.

On the other hand, Taurine supports healthy fetal growth and further helps reduce the risk of preterm birth by maintaining cellular hydration and electrolyte balance, both of which are crucial for fetal development.

Postnatal intake of DHA and EPA contributes to maternal mental health by reducing the risk of postpartum depression. These fatty acids help regulate mood and cognitive function, ensuring better emotional well-being after childbirth.

Additionally, Taurine enhances antioxidant defenses and reduces oxidative stress, aiding in postpartum recovery. This contributes to faster maternal healing and overall well-being after childbirth.

Therefore, from clinical studies conducted, omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) and Taurine are essential nutrients during pregnancy, significantly impacting both maternal and fetal health. Their roles in brain development, reducing preterm birth risks, and supporting postpartum recovery highlight the importance of maintaining adequate intake during pregnancy. Ensuring proper nutrition through diet or supplementation can lead to healthier pregnancy outcomes and long-term benefits for both mother and baby.

Labetalol is a non-selective beta-blocker and alpha-1 blocker, which results in vasodilation and a reduction in heart rate, effectively lowering blood pressure. This dual action is particularly beneficial in managing hypertension during pregnancy.

A systematic review and meta-analysis published in Hypertension evaluated the effectiveness of various antihypertensive agents in pregnancy. The study concluded that all commonly prescribed antihypertensives, including labetalol, significantly reduce the risk of severe hypertension. Notably, labetalol was associated with a decreased risk of proteinuria and fetal/newborn death, highlighting its potential advantages in managing preeclampsia.

PubMed Central

Additionally, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Committee Opinion on emergent therapy for acute-onset, severe hypertension in pregnant women recommends intravenous labetalol as a first-line medication for managing severe hypertension during pregnancy.

Labetalol is considered safe for use during pregnancy. It has been extensively studied and is recommended by national guidelines as a first-line antihypertensive agent for gestational hypertension and preeclampsia

Dosage and Administration

For acute management of severe hypertension in preeclampsia, the following dosing regimen is recommended:

Initial Bolus: Administer 20 mg IV over 2 minutes.

Subsequent Doses: If blood pressure remains elevated, repeat dosing with 40 mg IV every 10 minutes, up to a maximum total dose of 220 mg.

USF HEALTH Alternatively, an infusion can be initiated at 1 to 2 mg/min, with a maximum dose of 300 mg.

OBG PROJECT Monitoring and Considerations

Continuous monitoring of maternal blood pressure is essential to assess the effectiveness of treatment and adjust dosing as needed. Labetalol should be used cautiously in patients with asthma, preexisting myocardial disease, decompensated cardiac function, heart block, or bradycardia.

For comprehensive guidelines on the use of labetalol in preeclampsia, refer to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ Committee Opinion on emergent therapy for acute-onset, severe hypertension in pregnant women.

In summary, IV labetalol is a preferred first-line therapy for managing severe hypertension in preeclampsia, with dosing tailored to individual patient response and continuous monitoring to ensure maternal and fetal safety.

Labetalol hydrochloride stands out as a first-line therapy in the management of preeclampsia due to its proven efficacy in controlling blood pressure and its favorable safety profile during pregnancy. Its dual action on alpha and beta receptors makes it particularly effective in this clinical context.