People with heart disease or high blood pressure are often prescribed long-term beta blockers. But the side effects of the drugs could be more serious than previously thought.
Millions of Germans take beta blockers every day. The drugs are often used for high blood pressure and various heart diseases, for example after a heart attack. But taking beta blockers, or more precisely beta receptor blockers, can not only help, it also carries risks. Researchers from Sweden are currently reporting a newly discovered side effect of the drug.
As part of a study at Uppsala University, they examined more than 800 patients after a heart attack. The hearts of the test subjects all still had largely intact pumping performance. Some of them received beta-blockers as therapy, another group received basic medication without beta-blockers. The patients were asked about their symptoms at three points in time (hospital admission, six to ten weeks and twelve to fourteen months after the infarction).
The results were surprising: “Beta blockers led to a slightly increased level of depressive symptoms in patients who had suffered a heart attack,” summarized study author Philip Leissner. The test subjects reported feelings of anxiety and depressive moods. One possible explanation, according to researchers: Beta blockers can also have an effect beyond the heart, because the receptors to which they bind are also found in other organs.
The study authors emphasized: Doctors should refrain from prescribing beta blockers, especially when it is not necessary. “If the drug has no effect on their heart, then patients are taking it unnecessarily and run the risk of becoming depressed,” says Leissner.
In addition to the psychological effects, experts also see other risks when taking beta blockers. Some patients gain significant weight due to the drug because it changes metabolism and can also have an unfavorable effect on blood lipids. However, being overweight is a major health problem and is in turn a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
Other known side effects include fatigue, poor circulation in the extremities (cold hands and feet) and potency problems in men.
When treating high blood pressure, beta blockers are considered a reserve medication. Other active ingredients are usually recommended for blood pressure patients. Including:
In the case of certain heart diseases, however, beta blockers are indispensable. These include heart muscle weakness (heart failure) or atrial fibrillation. Of course, it remains important: Each patient must be viewed individually – both in terms of the benefits and possible risks of a medication.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Philip Leissner, Cardiologist and Lead Researcher
Editor: Good morning, Dr. Leissner. Thank you for joining us today. Your recent study on beta blockers has raised significant concerns about their long-term effects. Can you start by explaining what beta blockers are and how they are typically used in cardiac care?
Dr. Leissner: Good morning, and thank you for having me. Beta blockers are a class of medications primarily used to manage a variety of cardiovascular conditions, particularly high blood pressure and heart disease. They work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on beta receptors, which helps to slow down the heart rate and reduce blood pressure. After events like heart attacks, they can be crucial in helping the heart recover.
Editor: Absolutely. We’ve learned from your research that while beta blockers are essential, they may come with unexpected side effects. Can you elaborate on what your study discovered?
Dr. Leissner: Yes, our study examined over 800 patients who had recently suffered heart attacks. We wanted to assess not just the physical recovery of their hearts but also their mental health over time. Surprisingly, we found that patients taking beta blockers reported a slight increase in depressive symptoms, including feelings of anxiety and sadness.
Editor: That is indeed alarming. For people who rely on these medications, what should they take away from your findings? Should they be concerned about their mental health?
Dr. Leissner: It’s important to note that while our study indicates a potential link between beta blockers and increased depressive symptoms, this doesn’t mean that everyone will experience these effects. We believe that since beta receptors are found in other organs besides the heart, the medication might influence mood through pathways we’re just beginning to understand. Patients should definitely discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers, as these medications remain essential for many.
Editor: How might this information influence the prescriptions doctors make for their patients moving forward?
Dr. Leissner: It’s going to be crucial for doctors to take a holistic view of their patients, balancing the benefits of beta blockers in managing heart health with the potential mental health risks. We might see a more personalized approach to treatment, where healthcare providers could incorporate mental health screenings into regular check-ups for patients on these medications.
Editor: That makes perfect sense. What do you think needs to happen next in terms of research?
Dr. Leissner: Further research is essential to establish a clearer understanding of the mechanisms at play between beta blocker use and mental health symptoms. Larger studies that include diverse populations could help us confirm these findings and explore whether certain subgroups of patients are more at risk.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Leissner. This is such a vital conversation, not only about heart health but about overall well-being. Any final thoughts you’d like to share with our readers?
Dr. Leissner: I encourage readers to remain proactive about their health. If you’re on beta blockers or any long-term medication, stay mindful of your mental health as well. Discuss any changes, whether they’re physical or emotional, with your healthcare professional. Open dialogue can help ensure the best possible outcomes for both heart and mind.
Editor: Thank you again, Dr. Leissner. We appreciate your insights and hope this information will spark further discussion in the medical community and beyond.