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Association between beta-blockers and fracture risk: a Bayesian meta-analysis
Shuman Yang1, Nguyen D Nguyen, John A Eisman
1Division of Musculoskeletal Diseases, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Australia.
Bone
|July 31, 2012
Summary
Beta-blockers (BB) may reduce fracture risk in older adults. This Bayesian meta-analysis found a modest but significant association between BB use and lower risks of hip, vertebral, and other fractures.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pharmacology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Conflicting evidence exists regarding the association between beta-blockers (BB) and fracture risk.
- Previous studies have yielded inconsistent findings on this topic.
- A robust evaluation is needed to clarify the relationship.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of beta-blocker (BB) use on fracture risk.
- To employ a Bayesian meta-analysis approach for a comprehensive assessment.
Main Methods:
- Systematic retrieval of 13 observational studies.
- Inclusion of over 907,000 participants (men and women).
- Application of a hierarchical Bayesian random effects model.
Main Results:
- Beta-blocker (BB) use was linked to a 17% average reduction in the risk of any fracture (RR 0.83).
- Significant reductions were observed for hip fracture (RR 0.83) and vertebral fracture (RR 0.81).
- High probability (0.91) that BB use reduces fracture risk by at least 10%.
Conclusions:
- Beta-blockers (BB) are associated with a reduced risk of fractures in older adults.
- The observed effect size, while significant, is likely to be modest.
- Findings support a potential protective role of BBs against fractures in this population.
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