The association between beta-blockers use and depression - narrative review.

Abstract

Depressive symptoms are increasingly observed in people with somatic diseases, while depression increases the likelihood of coronary heart disease and has a negative impact on its course. Due to the widespread use of beta-blockers in cardiovascular diseases and the increased likelihood of depressive symptoms in this group of patients, the impact of the use of beta-blockers on the frequency of induction or severity of depressive symptoms was analyzed. The focus was primarily on the central effect of beta blockers on mood, but the effect of their peripheral action was also taken into account. The issue was examined based on the most commonly used medications. More lipophilic substances penetrate the central nervous system to a greater extent, usually leading to a higher incidence of depressive symptoms; however, this effect can vary depending on the study cited. It was noted that carvedilol, bisoprolol and propranolol did not induce depressive symptoms, unlike metoprolol, which in most studies showed a positive effect on the development or worsening of depressive symptoms. Based on the analysis of medical data, it was concluded that beta-blockers have no significant effect on the induction of depressive symptoms or this effect is clinically insignificant, and selected groups of these drugs may prevent the induction of depression or reduce its symptoms. Moreover, a positive effect of beta-blockers on reducing the level of anxiety was noted, and it was emphasized that they may cause both fatigue and sleep disorders in patients using them.