A new systematic review and meta-analysis examined the potential of polyphenols in the prevention and management of preeclampsia.
In the study, published in BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, investigators, led by Phi-Yen Nguyen, BSc, MPH, of the Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program at the Burnet Institute in Melbourne, Australia, analyzed data from 14 randomized controlled trials on polyphenol-containing supplements, including epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and resveratrol, in pregnant women with preeclampsia.
The study found that adding ECGC to nifedipine potentially reduced the time needed to achieve blood pressure control (mean difference [MD] = –14.10 minutes, 95% confidence interval [CI] = –18.46 to –9.74) and prolonged the time to the next hypertensive crisis (MD = 3.10 hours, 95% CI = 2.35–3.85). Similarly, the addition of resveratrol to nifedipine demonstrated a reduction in time needed for blood pressure control (MD = –15.50 minutes, 95% CI = –19.83 to –11.17) and an increase in time to the next hypertensive crisis (MD = 2.50 hours, 95% CI = 2.09–2.91). Both findings were classified as low-certainty evidence.
No statistically significant differences were observed for other polyphenol interventions, including Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen), raspberry extract, cranberry extract, and Bryophyllum pinnatum. The study also reported no clear evidence of reduced risk for severe maternal or neonatal complications.
"Polyphenols are an active area of research for novel medicines for the prevention and treatment of preeclampsia. ECGC and resveratrol supplements have been investigated for their potential effects in managing clinical signs and symptoms of preeclampsia; however, evidence of their efficacy and safety is limited and uncertain," said Ms. Nguyen.
Additionally, no trials initiated polyphenol treatments prior to 12 weeks of gestation, a critical window for preeclampsia prevention.
Current evidence does not support the widespread use of polyphenols for preeclampsia prevention or treatment. Large-scale trials are needed to establish safety, efficacy, and optimal dosing. Ongoing studies, including research on broccoli sprout extract, will help determine clinical relevance.
For obstetricians and maternal health specialists, the findings highlighted an evolving research landscape where polyphenols may play a role, but further investigation is necessary before clinical adoption.
Full disclosures are available in the published study.
