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Effect of Third-Generation Beta Blockers on Weight Loss in a Population of Overweight-Obese Subjects in a Controlled
Maria Alessandra Gammone1, Konstantinos Efthymakis2, Nicolantonio D'Orazio1
1Human and Clinical Nutrition Unit, Department of Medical Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. D'Annunzio University, Via Dei Vestini 31, Chieti 66013, Italy.
Background:
Overweight and obesity often develop in individuals with genetic susceptibility and concomitant risk factors; however, medications can represent precipitating factors in some cases: evidence suggests that some antihypertensive drugs can adversely affect energy homeostasis and metabolism.
Aim:
The primary aim of this study was to investigate whether long-term therapy with a beta blocker impairs weight loss during a period of appropriate personalized hypocaloric diet and standardized physical activity in overweight and obese hypertensive patients in monotherapy and without comorbidities, compared to other antihypertensive drugs and to a control group not taking antihypertensive therapy. Subjects and Methods. We enrolled overweight and obese patients taking antihypertensive drugs; subjects were divided into 3 groups: those taking traditional beta blockers (bB group), those taking third-generation beta blockers (bB-3 group), and those taking other antihypertensive drugs (non-bB group). We also enrolled subjects receiving neither antihypertensive therapy nor other chronic medication in the prior 12 months as controls. All subjects underwent personalized hypocaloric diets for a period of 24 months with monthly follow-up. Anthropometric parameters were measured at enrollment and then monthly after diet prescription. Glucose and lipid values were assessed at baseline and at 12 and 24 months during dietary regimen.
Results:
We enrolled a total of 120 overweight and obese patients aged 50.30 ± 1.13 years (mean ± standard deviation) with a mean BMI of 31.79 ± 0.65 kg/m2; 90 were taking antihypertensive drugs (no comorbidity and no polytherapy), while 30 subjects receiving neither antihypertensive therapy nor other chronic medication in the prior 12 months were considered as controls. After 6 months, the percent total weight loss (TWL%) was lower in the bB group (3.62 ± 1.96 versus 5.27 ± 1.76 in the bB-3 group, versus 5.15 ± 1.30 in the non-bB group, and versus 4.70 ± 0.87 in the control group), as well as their BMI. After 24 months, we kept finding the worst result in the bB group (TWL% = 9.22 ± 2.19 versus 12.79 ± 1.72 in the non-bB group and 12.28 ± 1.97 in the control group) with the best trend in the bB-3 group (TWL% = 16.19 ± 2.67).
Insights
Traditional beta blockers significantly impaired weight loss in overweight and obese patients. Third-generation beta blockers showed better results, comparable to other antihypertensive drugs and controls, highlighting medication impact on weight management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology and Metabolic Health
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Background:
- Overweight and obesity can be influenced by genetic factors, lifestyle, and certain medications.
- Antihypertensive drugs, particularly beta blockers, may negatively impact energy balance and metabolism, hindering weight management efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term effect of traditional beta blockers (bB) and third-generation beta blockers (bB-3) on weight loss in obese hypertensive patients.
- To compare the efficacy of bB and bB-3 therapies against other antihypertensive drugs (non-bB) and a control group without antihypertensive medication during a 24-month hypocaloric diet and exercise program.
Main Methods:
- 120 overweight and obese patients were enrolled, divided into four groups: traditional bB, bB-3, non-bB, and a control group.
- All participants followed a personalized hypocaloric diet for 24 months with monthly follow-ups.
- Anthropometric measurements, glucose, and lipid levels were monitored throughout the study.
Main Results:
- After 6 months, the traditional bB group exhibited significantly lower total weight loss (TWL%) and BMI reduction compared to bB-3, non-bB, and control groups.
- At 24 months, the traditional bB group continued to show the poorest weight loss results (9.22% TWL).
- The bB-3 group demonstrated the most favorable weight loss trend (16.19% TWL), outperforming non-bB (12.79% TWL) and control (12.28% TWL) groups.
Conclusions:
- Traditional beta blockers impede weight loss in overweight and obese hypertensive patients undergoing dietary and lifestyle interventions.
- Third-generation beta blockers are a more favorable option for weight management in this patient population.
- The choice of antihypertensive medication can significantly influence the success of weight loss programs in hypertensive individuals.
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