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Changes in depressive status associated with topical beta-blockers.

S Duch¹, C Duch, L Pastó

¹Department of Ophthalmology, Ciutat Sanitaria de Bellvitge, University of Barcelona, Spain.

International Ophthalmology

|September 1, 1992

Summary

Topical beta-blockers like timolol may cause depression. A study found timolol increased depression scores compared to betaxolol in glaucoma patients, suggesting betaxolol may be a better choice for those prone to depression.

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Area of Science:

Ophthalmology
Pharmacology

Background:

Topical beta-blockers are used for glaucoma treatment.
Depression and sexual dysfunction are potential side effects of these medications.

Purpose of the Study:

To compare central nervous system (CNS) side effects, specifically depression, between a non-selective beta-blocker (timolol) and a selective beta-blocker (betaxolol).

Main Methods:

A preliminary, double-blind, cross-over study with a control group was conducted.
Eight glaucoma patients on chronic timolol treatment with diagnosed depression were monitored over six months.
Depression was quantified using Beck and Zung-Conde scales every two months.

Main Results:

Patients treated with timolol showed significantly higher depression scores (p < 0.001) compared to the control group.

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These findings were consistent across both the Beck and Zung-Conde depression scales.

Conclusions:

Betaxolol may induce less depression than timolol in glaucoma patients predisposed to depressive symptoms.
Further research is warranted to confirm the differential CNS effects of selective versus non-selective topical beta-blockers.