Neuropsychiatric Consequences of Lipophilic Beta-Blockers

Influence of Ageing on the Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetics of Chronically Administered Medicines in Geriatric Patients: A Review

As people age, the efficiency of various regulatory processes that ensure proper communication between cells and organs tends to decline. This deterioration can lead to difficulties in maintaining homeostasis during physiological stress. This includes but is not limited to cognitive impairments, functional difficulties, and issues related to caregivers which contribute significantly to medication errors and non-adherence. These factors can lead to higher morbidity, extended hospital stays, reduced quality of life, and even mortality. The decrease in homeostatic capacity varies among individuals, contributing to the greater variability observed in geriatric populations. Significant pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic alterations accompany ageing. Pharmacokinetic changes include decreased renal and hepatic clearance and an increased volume of distribution for lipid-soluble drugs, which prolong their elimination half-life. Pharmacodynamic changes typically involve increased sensitivity to various drug classes, such as anticoagulants, antidiabetic and psychotropic medications. This review examines the primary age-related physiological changes in geriatrics and their impact on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of medications.

β-Blockers and risk of neuropsychiatric disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association between β-blocker use and neuropsychiatric adverse events, specifically focusing on short-term outcomes.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search identified studies reporting neuropsychiatric outcomes in patients using β-blockers, including randomized controlled trials and observational studies. Relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for outcomes such as dizziness, insomnia, nightmares, drowsiness and delirium.

RESULTS

Our analysis revealed that β-blocker use was significantly associated with an increased risk of dizziness (RR 1.72, 95% CI [1.39-2.14]; I2 = 1%, 14 studies) compared to placebo. Lipophilic β-blockers, especially propranolol, showed an even greater risk of dizziness (RR 3.13, 95% CI [1.44-6.84]; I2 = 0%, three studies). Propranolol was also associated with increased insomnia risk compared to placebo (RR 1.13, 95% CI [1.00-1.28]; I2 = 0%, five studies). Our data did not show statistically significant increases in the reports of nightmares and somnolence. Other adverse effects, including drowsiness, sleep disturbances, hallucinations and delirium, were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest a significant association between β-blocker use and an increased risk of neuropsychiatric adverse events, particularly insomnia and dizziness with higher risks associated with lipophilic β-blocker use. Given the ambiguity surrounding dizziness and its classification as a neuropsychiatric effect, our findings are exploratory, and we cannot exclude a potential cardiovascular origin for dizziness. Most studies (75%) were published before the CONSORT statement in 1996, indicating potential reporting limitations and a lack of recent research. Additionally, 60% of studies had a high risk of bias, underscoring the need for more rigorous and contemporary investigations into the neuropsychiatric implications of β-blocker use.

Bridging Gaps in Migraine Management: A Comprehensive Review of Conventional Treatments, Natural Supplements, Complementary Therapies, and Lifestyle Modifications

Background: Migraine, a complex neurological condition, poses significant challenges for both sufferers and healthcare providers. While prescription medications play a vital role in managing migraine attacks, the quest for natural, non-pharmacological alternatives has garnered increasing interest. This review explores the efficacy and safety of natural supplements as treatments for migraine relief, comparing them with conventional prescription medications. Methods: The review delves into herbal supplements, clinical studies on natural remedies, aromatherapy, dietary influences, and lifestyle modifications in the context of migraine management in several databases. Results: The findings shed light on the potential of natural supplements as complementary or alternative approaches to traditional migraine therapies, offering insights into a holistic and personalized treatment paradigm for migraine sufferers. Conclusions: Natural supplements have gained attention as potential treatments for migraine relief, often perceived as safer alternatives to conventional medications.

Effects of beta-blockers on quality of life and well-being in patients with myocardial infarction and preserved left ventricular function-a prespecified substudy from REDUCE-AMI

AIMS

In the Randomized Evaluation of Decreased Usage of Beta-Blockers after Acute Myocardial Infarction (REDUCE-AMI) study, long-term beta-blocker use in patients after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction demonstrated no effect on death or cardiovascular outcomes. The aim of this prespecified substudy was to investigate effects of beta-blockers on self-reported quality of life and well-being.

METHODS AND RESULTS

From this parallel-group, open-label, registry-based randomized clinical trial, EQ-5D, and World Health Organization well-being index-5 (WHO-5) questionnaires were obtained at 6-10 weeks and 11-13 months after AMI in 4080 and 806 patients, respectively. We report results from intention-to-treat and on-treatment analyses for the overall population and relevant subgroups using Wilcoxon rank sum test and adjusted ordinal regression analyses. Of the 4080 individuals reporting EQ-5D (median age 64 years, 22% female), 2023 were randomized to beta-blockers. The main outcome, median EQ-5D index score, was 0.94 [interquartile range (IQR) 0.88, 0.97] in the beta-blocker group, and 0.94 (IQR 0.88, 0.97) in the no-beta-blocker group 6-10 weeks after AMI, OR 1.00 [95% CI 0.89-1.13; P > 0.9]. After 11-13 months, results remained unchanged. Findings were robust in on-treatment analyses and across relevant subgroups. Secondary outcomes, EQ-VAS and WHO-5 index score, confirmed these results.

CONCLUSION

Among patients after AMI with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction, self-reported quality of life and well-being was not significantly different in individuals randomized to routine long-term beta-blocker therapy as compared to individuals with no beta-blocker use. These results appear consistent regardless of adherence to randomized treatment and across subgroups which emphasizes the need for a careful individual risk-benefit evaluation prior to initiation of beta-blocker treatment.

Interventions by Cardiovascular Drugs Against Aircraft Noise-Induced Cardiovascular Oxidative Stress and Damage

Noise pollution is a known health risk factor and evidence for cardiovascular diseases associated with traffic noise is growing. At least 20% of the European Union's population lives in noise-polluted areas with exposure levels exceeding the recommended limits of the World Health Organization, which is considered unhealthy by the European Environment Agency. This results in the annual loss of 1.6 million healthy life years. Here, we investigated the protective effects of cardiovascular drug interventions against aircraft noise-mediated cardiovascular complications such as elevated oxidative stress or endothelial dysfunction. Using our established mouse exposure model, we applied mean sound pressure levels of 72 dB(A) for 4 d. C57BL/6 mice were treated with the beta-blocker propranolol (15 mg/kg/d s.c. for 5 d) or the alpha-blocker phenoxybenzamine (1.5 mg/kg/d s.c. for 5 d) and noise-exposed for the last 4 d of the drug administration. Short-term noise exposure caused hypertension (measured by tail-cuff blood pressure monitoring) and impaired endothelial function (measured by isometric tension recording in the aorta and video microscopy in cerebral arterioles in response to acetylcholine). Noise also increased markers of oxidative stress and inflammation. Treatment of mice with propranolol and phenoxybenzamine prevented endothelial and microvascular dysfunction, which was supported by a decrease in markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in heart tissue and the brain. Amelioration of noise-induced hypertension (systolic blood pressure) was not observed, whereas pulse pressure was lowered by trend. This study provides a novel perspective mitigating the adverse effects of noise pollution, especially in vulnerable groups with medication, a rationale for further pharmacological human studies.

Metoprolol adverse events and literature analyses: case/non-case analyses using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS)

BACKGROUND

In recent years, β-blockers such as metoprolol have been upgraded to first-line antihypertensive drugs. However, metoprolol demonstrates poor prognosis effects on diseases such as stroke. Further clinical application may expand the possibility of its related adverse reactions. Currently, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the overall safety of metoprolol.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Statistical analysis and signal mining were conducted on adverse event reports related to metoprolol obtained from the FAERS database. Signal mining was conducted using the proportional reporting ratio, the report margin method, the bayesian confidence propagation neural network, and empirical Bayesian geometric mean in the measures of disproportionality to detect potential adverse reaction signals.

RESULTS

The results showed 16,853 reports related to metoprolol use, identifying 506 preferred terms (PTs) covering 23 system organ classes (SOCs). In addition, some new potential adverse reactions appeared among the top 30 PTs ranked by signal strength, such as 'orthostatic intolerance' (IC025 = 3.00), 'trigemino-cardiac reflex' (IC025 = 4.30), 'decorticate posture' (IC025 = 3.34), etc. Notably, there was a strong association between 'suspected suicide' (IC025 = 5.59) and the drug signal.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified unexpected signals of serious adverse reactions, suggesting the importance of continuous post-marketing surveillance of metoprolol to understand its potential risks.

Hypertension and Cognitive Disorders

Systemic hypertension is possibly the most important modifiable risk factor for the development of cognitive decline, both for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. For effective blood pressure (BP) control, it requires proper assessment, using brachial, central, and ambulatory measurements, and monitoring with a focus on different BP parameters. Different BP parameters like pulse pressure, mean arterial pressure, BP variability, and circadian parameters, like nondippers and early morning surge, should be considered in the evaluation for the risk of cognitive decline due to hypertension in middle age and older adults. Chronic hypertension causes vascular remodeling in the brain and leads to brain failure or cognitive decline. Achieving specific BP goals can improve clinical outcomes and possibly slow down cognitive decline for patients with comorbid hypertension and cognitive impairment.

Ferroptosis in Cardiovascular Diseases and Ferroptosis-Related Intervention Approaches

OBJECTIVE

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are major public health problems that threaten the lives and health of individuals. The article has reviewed recent progresses about ferroptosis and ferroptosis-related intervention approaches for the treatment of CVDs and provided more references and strategies for targeting ferroptosis to prevent and treat CVDs.

METHODS

A comprehensive review was conducted using the literature researches.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Many ferroptosis-targeted compounds and ferroptosis-related genes may be prospective targets for treating CVDs and our review provides a solid foundation for further studies about the detailed pathological mechanisms of CVDs.

CONCLUSION

There are challenges and limitations about the translation of ferroptosis-targeted potential therapies from experimental research to clinical practice. It warrants further exploration to pursure safer and more effective ferroptosis-targeted thereapeutic approaches for CVDs.

Short- and long-term effects of beta-blockers on symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with myocardial infarction and preserved left ventricular function: a pre-specified quality of life sub-study from the REDUCE-AMI trial

AIMS

Among patients with myocardial infarction (MI) with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), the REDUCE-AMI trial did not demonstrate a benefit of beta-blocker vs. no beta-blocker treatment on all-cause mortality and recurrent myocardial infarction. The aim of this pre-specified sub-study was to investigate effects of beta-blockers on self-reported symptoms of anxiety and depression.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this parallel-group, open-label, registry-based randomized trial, assessments with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were obtained at hospitalization and two follow-up points (6-10 weeks and 12-14 months) after MI. Analyses were based on the intention-to-treat principle using linear mixed models, calculating both short- and long-term effects. From August 2018 through June 2022, 806 patients were enrolled. At baseline, 27% of patients were possible cases of anxiety (m, 5.6; SD, 3.9) and 14% were possible cases of depression (m, 3.9; SD, 3.2). Beta-blocker treatment had a negative effect on depressive symptoms at both follow-ups 1 (β = 0.48; 95% CI 09-0.86; P = 0.015) and 2 (β = 0.41; 95% CI = 0.01-0.81; P = 0.047), but no effect on anxiety.

CONCLUSION

Beta-blocker treatment led to a modest increase in depressive symptoms among MI patients with preserved LVEF. This observed effect was most pronounced in individuals with prior beta-blocker treatment. In routine initiation and continuation of beta-blocker treatment, a risk of slightly increased depressive symptoms should be considered.

Real-world research on beta-blocker usage trends in China and safety exploration based on the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS)

BACKGROUND

Beta-blockers are widely used, with continuously updated clinical recommendations. However, their application faces challenges in personalized treatment and safety. The study aimed to investigate the frequency and patterns of prescribing beta-blockers in China and to explore potential adverse event risk signals associated with beta-blockers, providing reference for rational medication use in clinical settings.

METHODS

Prescription data for beta-blockers from January 2018 to June 2023 were extracted through the Hospital Prescription Analysis Collaborative Project in China to analyze clinical usage trends. While adverse drug reaction reports for beta-blockers were obtained from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database. The classification and standardization of adverse drug event (ADE) reports were based on the preferred terms (PT) and corresponding system organ classes (SOC) from the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA). Signal detection utilized a proportion imbalance method.

RESULTS

In clinical practice, metoprolol dominated beta-blocker prescriptions in China, accounting for 62.2%. Beta-blockers were primarily prescribed to the elderly (65.7%) and male patients (57.0%). However, off-label use of beta-blockers was relatively widespread. For instance, sotalol was prescribed for hypertension at 18.25%, while esmolol was used for angina and heart failure at rates of 12.94% and 14.98%, respectively. In addition, we identified newly discovered adverse reactions associated with beta-blockers, such as BRASH syndrome (metoprolol: n = 186, ROR = 391.285; carvedilol: n = 72, ROR = 256.459), acute kidney injury (bisoprolol: n = 247, ROR = 5.641), premature baby (labetalol: n = 110, ROR = 91.385), and sleep disorder (propranolol: n = 254, ROR = 10.98).

CONCLUSIONS

Metoprolol led the beta-blocker market in China. Attention was warranted regarding the newly discovered adverse reactions, such as the risk of acute kidney injury with bisoprolol and the potential for BRASH syndrome with metoprolol and carvedilol.

Under-Prescription of Drugs in the Elderly Population of Western Romania: An Analysis Based on STOPP/START Version 2 Criteria

Background/Objectives: Numerous European countries, including Romania, are facing the concern of rapid ageing of their populations. Moreover, Romania's life expectancy ranks among the lowest in the European Union. In light of this, it is imperative that the assessment of medication-related harm be given national priority in order to secure and enhance pharmacotherapy and the medical act. In this study, we sought to describe and evaluate the under-prescribing practices among the Romanian elderly population. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study in urban areas of two counties in Western Romania (Timis and Arad) from November 2017 to February 2019. We collected chronic electronic prescriptions issued for elderly patients (>65 years old) with chronic conditions. The medication was prescribed by generalist or specialist physicians for periods ranging between 30 and 90 days. To assess inappropriate prescribing behaviours, a multidisciplinary team of specialists applied the Screening Tool of Older Persons' Prescriptions/Screening Tool to Alert to Right Treatment (STOPP/START) v.2 criteria to the collected prescriptions. Results: Within the 1498 prescriptions included in the study, 57% were issued to females, the mean age was 74.1 ± 6.95, and the average number of medicines per prescription was 4.7 ± 1.51. The STOPP criteria most commonly identified were the (1) long treatment duration (23.6%) and (2) prescription of neuroleptics (14.6%) or zopiclone (14.0%) as medications that increase the risk of falls. According to START criteria, the following medicines were under-prescribed: (1) statins (47.4%), (2) beta-blockers (24.5%), (3) antiresorptive therapy (10.0%), and (4) β2-agonists and muscarinic antagonists for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (4.5%). Within our study group, the prevalence of potentially inappropriate medications was 18.58%, whereas the prevalence of potential prescribing omissions was 49.2%. Conclusions: To decrease medication-related harm and morbid-mortality, and to increase the quality of life for elderly people in Romania, immediate actions are needed from national authorities. These actions include reinforcing primary care services, providing periodic training for physicians, implementing medication review services by pharmacists, and utilising electronic health records at their full capacity.

Evolving Strategies for Use of Phytochemicals in Prevention and Long-Term Management of Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD)

This report describes major pathomechanisms of disease in which the dysregulation of host inflammatory processes is a major factor, with cardiovascular disease (CVD) as a primary model, and reviews strategies for countermeasures based on synergistic interaction between various agents, including drugs and generally regarded as safe (GRAS) natural medical material (NMM), such as Ginkgo biloba, spice phytochemicals, and fruit seed flavonoids. The 15 well-defined CVD classes are explored with particular emphasis on the extent to which oxidative stressors and associated ischemia-reperfusion tissue injury contribute to major symptoms. The four major categories of pharmaceutical agents used for the prevention of and therapy for CVD: statins, beta blockers (β-blockers), blood thinners (anticoagulants), and aspirin, are presented along with their adverse effects. Analyses of major cellular and molecular features of drug- and NMM-mediated cardioprotective processes are provided in the context of their development for human clinical application. Future directions of the evolving research described here will be particularly focused on the characterization and manipulation of calcium- and calcineurin-mediated cascades of signaling from cell surface receptors on cardiovascular and immune cells to the nucleus, with the emergence of both protective and pathological epigenetic features that may be modulated by synergistically-acting combinations of drugs and phytochemicals in which phytochemicals interact with cells to promote signaling that reduces the effective dosage and thus (often) toxicity of drugs.

Cardiomyopathies and Psychiatric Disorders: An Overview and General Clinical Recommendations

The association between cardiomyopathies (CMPs) and psychiatric disorders is a complex and bidirectional phenomenon that involves multiple mechanisms and factors. CMPs may raise the risk of psychiatric disorders due to the psychological stress, physical limitations, social isolation, or poor prognosis associated with the underlying disease. Psychiatric disorders, on the other hand, can increase the possibility of developing or worsening CMPs due to the behavioral, neuroendocrine, inflammatory, or pharmacological effects of mental illness or its treatment. Moreover, some common genetic or environmental factors may have a relevant influence on both conditions. With this comprehensive review, we sought to provide an overview of the current evidence on the strict and intriguing interconnection between CMPs and psychiatric disorders, focusing on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical implications, and management strategies.

β-blockers are not all the same: pharmacologic similarities and differences, potential combinations and clinical implications

β-blockers are a heterogeneous class, with individual agents distinguished by selectivity for β1- vs. β2- and α-adrenoceptors, presence or absence of partial agonist activity at one of more β-receptor subtype, presence or absence of additional vasodilatory properties, and lipophilicity, which determines the ease of entry the drug into the central nervous system. Cardioselectivity (β1-adrenoceptor selectivity) helps to reduce the potential for adverse effects mediated by blockade of β2-adrenoceptors outside the myocardium, such as cold extremities, erectile dysfunction, or exacerbation of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. According to recently updated guidelines from the European Society of Hypertension, β-blockers are included within the five major drug classes recommended as the basis of antihypertensive treatment strategies. Adding a β-blocker to another agent with a complementary mechanism may provide a rational antihypertensive combination that minimizes the adverse impact of induced sympathetic overactivity for optimal blood pressure-lowering efficacy and clinical outcomes benefit.

Pediatric Beta Blocker Therapy: A Comprehensive Review of Development and Genetic Variation to Guide Precision-Based Therapy in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults

Beta adrenergic receptor antagonists, known as beta blockers, are one of the most prescribed medications in both pediatric and adult cardiology. Unfortunately, most of these agents utilized in the pediatric clinical setting are prescribed off-label. Despite regulatory efforts aimed at increasing pediatric drug labeling, a majority of pediatric cardiovascular drug agents continue to lack pediatric-specific data to inform precision dosing for children, adolescents, and young adults. Adding to this complexity is the contribution of development (ontogeny) and genetic variation towards the variability in drug disposition and response. In the absence of current prospective trials, the purpose of this comprehensive review is to illustrate the current knowledge gaps regarding the key drivers of variability in beta blocker drug disposition and response and the opportunities for investigations that will lead to changes in pediatric drug labeling.

Severe depressive symptoms in patients with hypertension: Are antihypertensive medications implicated?

OBJECTIVE

This study examined whether antihypertensive medications and other patient characteristics are associated with severe depressive symptoms in patients with hypertension.

METHODS

Patients with a diagnosis of hypertension were recruited from the internal medicine outpatient clinics of a hospital in Amman, Jordan, into this cross-sectional study. Depression severity was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9); anxiety by the General Anxiety Disorder-7; sleep quality by the Insomnia Severity Index; and psychological stress by the Perceived Stress Scale. Multivariable binary logistic regression was used to examine the association between the different classes of antihypertensive medication and depressive symptoms.

RESULTS

Of the 431 participants, 282 (65.4%) were men; 240 (55.7%) reported having type 2 diabetes; 359 (83.3%) had dyslipidemia; 142 (32.9%) were on beta-blockers; 197 (45.2%) were on ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers; 203 (47.1%) were on metformin; and 133 (30.9%) were taking sulfonylurea. Severe depressive symptoms, indicated by scoring above the cut-off of 14 on the PHQ-9, were present in 165 (38.3%) patients. Severe depression was associated with younger age (<55 years) (OR = 3.15, 95% CI = 1.83-5.41, P < 0.001), unemployment (OR = 2.15, 95% CI = 1.15-4.00, P = 0.01), diabetes (OR = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.09-3.02, P = 0.02), severe anxiety (OR = 6.40, 95% CI = 3.64-11.28, P < 0.001), and severe insomnia (OR = 4.73, 95% CI = 2.85-7.82, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Severe depressive symptoms were not associated with antihypertensive medications or other drugs used by hypertensive patients. Younger age, diabetes, anxiety, and insomnia were the primary correlates of depression.

Association between Incidence of Prescriptions for Alzheimer's Disease and Beta-Adrenoceptor Antagonists: A Prescription Sequence Symmetry Analysis

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, with a growing number of patients worldwide. The association between AD and treatment with drugs targeting the beta-adrenergic receptor is controversial. The aim of this study is to assess the association between the initiation of AD medication and beta-adrenoceptor antagonists (beta-blockers) in adults.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a prescription sequence symmetry analysis using the University of Groningen IADB.nl prescription database. We determined the order of the first prescription for treating AD and the first prescription for beta-blockers, with the dispensing date of the first prescription for AD defined as the index date. Participants were adults over 45 years old starting any AD medication and beta-blockers within two years. We calculated adjusted sequence ratios with corresponding 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

We identified 510 users of both AD and beta-blockers, and 145 participants were eligible. The results were compatible with either a significant decrease in the incidence of AD after using beta-blockers (adjusted sequence ratio (aSR) = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.35-0.72) or, conversely, an increase in beta-blockers after AD medication (aSR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.61-2.30).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a relationship between the use of beta-blockers and AD medications. Further research is needed with larger populations to determine whether drug therapy for AD increases the risk of hypertension or whether beta-blockers have potential protective properties against AD development.

Role of β-blockers in the cardiovascular disease continuum: a collaborative Delphi survey-based consensus from Asia-Pacific

OBJECTIVE

This Delphi method of consensus was designed to develop scientific statements for β-blockers in the continuum of cardiovascular diseases with a special focus on the role of bisoprolol.

METHODS

Eleven experienced cardiologists from across the Asia-Pacific countries participated in two rounds of the survey. In the first round, experts were asked to rate agreement/disagreement with 35 statements across seven domains regarding the use of β-blockers for treating hypertension, heart failure, coronary artery diseases, co-morbidities, as well as their safety profile, usage pattern, and pharmacokinetic variability. A consensus for a statement could be reached with >70% agreement.

RESULTS

Except for seven statements, all attained consensus in the first round. In the second round that was conducted virtually, the experts re-appraised their ratings for the seven statements along with a critical appraisal of two additional statements that were suggested by experts in the preceding round. At the end of the second round, the final version included 36 statements (34 original statements, two statements suggested by experts, and the omission of one statement that did not attain consensus). The final version of statements in the second round was disseminated among experts for their approval followed by manuscript development.

CONCLUSION

Attainment of consensus for almost all statements reconfirms the clinical benefits of β-blockers, particularly β1-selective blockers for the entire spectrum of cardiovascular diseases.

Antihypertensive Medications and PTSD Incidence in a Trauma Cohort

Objective: Antihypertensive medications have been examined as agents for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) prevention in trauma-exposed individuals, given well-documented associations between PTSD and increased risk of cardiovascular disease and purported trauma-relevant mechanisms of action for these medications. Evidence regarding the effectiveness of such drugs for this purpose remains mixed.

Methods: We conducted a national population-based cohort study using data from Danish national registries to assess whether 4 classes of antihypertensive drugs (beta-adrenoceptor blockers [beta blockers], angiotensin II receptor blockers [ARBs], angiotensin-converting enzyme [ACE] inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers) were associated with a decreased incidence of PTSD (diagnosed according to ICD-10) over a 22-year study period. Data for this study originated from a population-based cohort of over 1.4 million persons who experienced a traumatic event between 1994 and 2016 in Denmark. We calculated the incidence rate of PTSD per 100,000 person-years among persons who filled a prescription for each class of drug in the 60 days prior to a traumatic event and for corresponding unexposed comparison groups. We then used Cox proportional hazards regression to compare the rate of PTSD among persons who filled an antihypertensive medication prescription within 60 days before their trauma to the rate among persons who did not.

Results: We found evidence that calcium channel blockers were associated with a decreased incidence of PTSD (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.34, 1.2); all other antihypertensive medication classes had null or near null associations.

Conclusions: These findings lay a foundation for additional research focusing on antihypertensive medications that appear most effective in reducing PTSD incidence following trauma and for additional replication work aimed at continuing to clarify the disparate findings reported in the literature to date.

10-Year Risk for Cardiovascular Disease Associated with COMISA (Co-Morbid Insomnia and Sleep Apnea) in Hypertensive Subjects

Due to the few studies available, this study aimed to investigate the 10-year risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) associated with COMISA (co-morbid insomnia and sleep apnea) in hypertensive subjects. Clinical data of 1009 hypertensive subjects extracted from the Sleep Laboratory database were analyzed. Framingham Risk Score ≥ 10% was used as a cut-off to identify hypertensive subjects with high 10-year risk for CVD. The association between 10-year risk for CVD and COMISA was investigated using logistic regression analyses. 65.3% of hypertensive subjects from our sample presented a high 10-year risk for CVD. After controlling for major confounding factors, multivariate logistic regression analyses demonstrated that unlike its components present separately, COMISA was significantly associated with high 10-year risk for CVD in hypertensive subjects (OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.01-3.51). In this study, we have demonstrated that the negative synergy between obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and insomnia disorder seems to play a central role in the 10-year risk for CVD in hypertensive subjects, which seems to indicate that the establishment of a systematic research and an adapted treatment of COMISA could open new perspectives to promote a better cardiovascular outcome in this specific subgroup of patients.

Symptom Cluster Profiles Among Adults with Insomnia and Heart Failure

OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND

Both heart failure (HF) and insomnia are associated with high symptom burden that may be manifested in clustered symptoms. To date, studies of insomnia have focused only on its association with single symptoms. The purposes of this study were to: (1) describe daytime symptom cluster profiles in adults with insomnia and chronic HF; and (2) determine the associations between demographic and clinical characteristics, insomnia and sleep characteristics and membership in symptom cluster profiles.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred and ninety-five participants [M age 63.0 (SD12.8); 84 (43.1%) male; 148 (75.9%) New York Heart Association Class I/II] from the HeartSleep study (NCT0266038), a randomized controlled trial of the sustained effects of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I).

METHODS

We analyzed baseline data, including daytime symptoms (fatigue, pain, anxiety, depression, dyspnea, sleepiness) and insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index), and sleep characteristics (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, wrist actigraphy). We conducted latent class analysis to identify symptom cluster profiles, bivariate associations, and multinomial regression.

RESULTS

We identified three daytime symptom cluster profiles, physical (N = 73 participants; 37.4%), emotional (N = 12; 5.6%), and all-high symptoms (N = 111; 56.4%). Body mass index, beta blockers, and insomnia severity were independently associated with membership in the all-high symptom profile, compared with the other symptom profile groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher symptom burden is associated with more severe insomnia in people with stable HF. There is a need to understand whether treatment of insomnia improves symptom burden as reflected in transition from symptom cluster profiles reflecting higher to lower symptom burden.

The association between antihypertensive medications and mental health outcomes among Syrian war refugees with stress and hypertension

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the association between antihypertensive drugs with mental health outcomes. We examined the association between the antihypertensive classes and other clinical patient features with symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in a cohort of Syrian war refugees with stress and hypertension residing in Jordan.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study recruited hypertensive Syrian refugees with stress. Depression severity was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, anxiety was measured by The General Anxiety Disorder-7, the Insomnia Severity Index was used to evaluate sleep quality and PTSD was measured using Davidson Trauma Scale. To investigate the association between the different classes of antihypertensive medication and mental health outcomes we used multivariable regression models.

RESULTS

Of the 492 participants, 251 were men (51%), 234 (47.6%) were on β-blockers, 141 (28.7%) on diuretics, and 209 (42.5%) on Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors (ACEIs)/Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs). Although the multivariate regression revealed the different classes of antihypertensives are not associated with mental health symptoms, however, physical activity is associated with lower adjusted odds for symptoms of depression (0.68 (0.46-0.99), p = 0.04), anxiety (0.60 (0.42-0.85),p = 0.005), insomnia (0.63 (0.44-0.91),p = 0.01) and dyslipidemia (3.48(0.29-6.69),p = 0.03) is associated with higher PTSD symptoms.

LIMITATIONS

The study subjects were not assessed for psychiatric diagnoses clinically. Further, we used a cross-sectional design that does not allow to measure longitudinal changes.

CONCLUSIONS

The association between antihypertensive drugs and mental health symptoms was not evident in the present study. Follow-up future studies are required.

The β-adrenergic hypothesis of synaptic and microglial impairment in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease originating partly from amyloid β protein-induced synaptic failure. As damaging of noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC) occurs at the prodromal stage of AD, activation of adrenergic receptors could serve as the first line of defense against the onset of the disease. Activation of β₂ -ARs strengthens long-term potentiation (LTP) and synaptic activity, thus improving learning and memory. Physical stimulation of animals exposed to an enriched environment (EE) leads to the activation of β₂ -ARs and prevents synaptic dysfunction. EE also suppresses neuroinflammation, suggesting that β₂ -AR agonists may play a neuroprotective role. The β₂ -AR agonists used for respiratory diseases have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect. Epidemiological studies further support the beneficial effects of β₂ -AR agonists on several neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, I propose that β₂ -AR agonists may provide therapeutic value in combination with novel treatments for AD.

Association between β-blocker dose and quality of life after myocardial infarction: a real-world Swedish register-linked study

BACKGROUND

β-blockers are routinely administered to patients following myocardial infarction (MI), yet their potential effect on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is not entirely understood. We investigated the relationship between two different doses of β-blockers with HRQoL following MI.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This nationwide observational study used Swedish national registries to collate sociodemographic, clinical, medication, and HRQoL {the latter operationalized using EuroQol [European Quality of Life Five Dimensions Questionnaire (EQ-5D)]}. Estimates at 6-10 weeks and 12-14 months post-MI follow-up from pooled linear and logistic models were calculated after multiple imputation. We identified 35 612 patients with first-time MI, discharged with β-blockers, and enrolled in cardiac rehabilitation between 2006 and 2015. Upon discharge, patients were either dispensed <50% [24 082 (67.6%)] or ≥50% [11 530 (32.4%)] of the target dosage, as defined in previous trials. After adjusting for pre-defined covariates, neither the EQ-5D Index nor the Emotional Distress items were statistically different between groups. The EQ-VAS score was significantly lower in patients treated with ≥50% target β-blocker dose than those treated with <50% of the target dose [-0.87 [-1.23, -0.46], P < .001]. Results were similar at the 12-month follow-up and across sub-groups separated by sex and age.

CONCLUSION

No difference in HRQoL was found among patients taking <50% vs. ≥50% of the target β-blocker dose, except for the EQ-VAS in which higher scores were reported in those taking a lower dose. The clinical meaningfulness of this statistical significance is likely low.

The association between cardiac drug therapy and anxiety among cardiac patients: results from the national DenHeart survey

BACKGROUND

Neuropsychiatric side effects of cardiac drugs such as nervousness, mood swings and agitation may be misinterpreted as symptoms of anxiety. Anxiety in cardiac patients is highly prevalent and associated with poor outcomes, thus an accurate identification is essential. The objectives were to: (I) describe the possible neuropsychiatric side effects of common cardiac drug therapies, (II) describe the use of cardiac drug therapy in cardiac patients with self-reported symptoms of anxiety compared to those with no symptoms of anxiety, and (III) investigate the association between the use of cardiac drug therapy and self-reported symptoms of anxiety.

METHODS

DenHeart is a large national cross-sectional survey combined with national register data. Symptoms of anxiety were measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-A) on patients with ischemic heart disease, arrhythmia, heart failure and heart valve disease. Side effects were obtained from 'product summaries', and data on redeemed prescriptions obtained from the Danish National Prescription Registry. Multivariate logistic regression analyses explored the association between cardiac drug therapies and symptoms of anxiety (HADS-A ≥ 8).

RESULTS

Among 8998 respondents 2891 (32%) reported symptoms of anxiety (HADS-A ≥ 8). Neuropsychiatric side effects were reported from digoxin, antiarrhythmics, beta-blockers, ACE-inhibitors and angiotensin receptor antagonists. Statistically significant higher odds of reporting HADS ≥ 8 was found in users of diuretics, lipid-lowering agents, nitrates, antiarrhythmics and beta-blockers compared to patients with no prescription.

CONCLUSION

Some cardiac drugs were associated with self-reported symptoms of anxiety among patients with cardiac disease. Of these drugs neuropsychiatric side effects were only reported for antiarrhythmics and beta-blockers. Increased awareness about the possible adverse effects from these drugs are important.

Drug Safety in Episodic Migraine Management in Adults. Part 2: Preventive Treatments

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim of this review is to aid in decision-making when choosing safe and effective options for preventive migraine medications.

RECENT FINDINGS

In Part 2, we have compiled clinically relevant safety considerations for commonly used migraine prophylactic treatments. Preventive treatment of episodic migraine includes nonspecific and migraine-specific drugs. While medications from several pharmacological classes-such as anticonvulsants, beta-blockers, and antidepressants-have an established efficacy in migraine prevention, they are associated with a number of side effects. The safety of migraine-specific treatments such as anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies and gepants are also discussed. This review highlights safety concerns of commonly used migraine prophylactic agents and offers suggestions on how to mitigate those risks.

β-adrenoceptor antagonists and nightmares: A pharmacoepidemiological-pharmacodynamic study

AIM

To compare different β-adrenoceptor antagonists for the risk of reporting nightmare.

METHODS

The study involved two approaches: first, we investigated in VigiBase^®, the World Health Organization Individual Case Safety Report (ICSR) database, the disproportionality between exposure to each β-adrenoceptor antagonists and reports of nightmares between 1967 and 2019. Second, in a pharmacoepidemiological-pharmacodynamic analysis, we assessed whether use of β-adrenoceptor antagonists with moderate and high lipid solubility or strong 5-HT_1A affinity were associated with an increased risk of reporting nightmares. We conducted multivariate logistic regression to estimate reporting odds ratios (RORs) of nightmares compared to all other adverse drug reactions.

RESULTS

Of the 126,964 reports recorded with β-adrenoceptor antagonists, 1138 (0.9%) were nightmares. The highest risk of reporting a nightmare was found with exposure of pindolol (adjusted ROR 2.82, 95%CI, 2.19-3.61), metoprolol (1.89, 1.66-2.16), and alprenolol (1.77, 1.06-2.97). Compared to use of low lipid solubility β-adrenoceptor antagonists, use of moderate or high lipid solubility β-adrenoceptor antagonists were significantly more associated with nightmare reports (aROR moderate vs. low 1.72, 95%CI 1.47-2.00 and aROR high vs. low 1.84, 95%CI 1.53-2.22). Use of moderate or high 5-HT_1A affinity of β-adrenoceptor antagonists was associated with an increased ROR of nightmares compared with low 5-HT_1A affinity of β-adrenoceptor antagonists (aROR moderate vs. low 1.22, 95%CI 1.04-1.43 and aROR high vs. low 2.46, 95%CI 1.93-3.13).

CONCLUSION

In our large pharmacovigilance study, nightmares are more frequently reported for pindolol and metoprolol, and among β-adrenoceptor antagonists with high lipid solubility and high 5-HT_1A receptor affinity.