Efficacy of beta-blocker supplementation for schizophrenia: a systematic review of randomized trials

Adrenergic beta-receptor antagonists, commonly used in the field of cardiovascular diseases, have also been recommended for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. We systematically review quality assessed trials on beta-blocker supplementation of antipsychotic treatment for schizophrenia. All randomized controlled trials comparing any beta-blocking agent added to any antipsychotic with a placebo added to any antipsychotic, and lasting for at least 1 week, were located through electronic searches in all languages of several databases. The trials were assessed by at least two independent reviewers for inclusion, quality score, and data extraction. The reviewers located five studies with 117 participants. The data were poorly presented in these short-term studies and did not evidence any effect of beta-blockers as an adjunct to conventional antipsychotic medication. At present beta-blockers cannot be recommended in the treatment of schizophrenia, and schizophrenia treatment guidelines advocating use of beta-blockers should be revised.