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Use of beta-blockers and depressive symptoms in hypertensive older adults: a multicenter study

Mayra Valdivia-Herrera1, P Alejandra Goicochea-Romero1, Christopher Butler Vallejo2

  • 1. CHANGE Research Working Group, Carrera de Medicina Humana, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Peru. Universidad Científica del Sur CHANGE Research Working Group Carrera de Medicina Humana Universidad Científica del Sur Lima Peru.

Archivos Peruanos De Cardiologia Y Cirugia Cardiovascular
|November 20, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Beta-blocker use was not associated with depressive symptoms in older adults with hypertension. However, frailty and lower education levels increased the risk of depression in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Geriatrics
  • Cardiology
  • Psychiatry

Background:

  • Hypertension (HTN) is a prevalent condition in older adults.
  • Antihypertensive medications, including beta-blockers, are commonly prescribed.
  • The potential impact of beta-blockers on mental health, specifically depressive symptoms, warrants investigation in this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine if there is an association between beta-blocker use and the presence of depressive symptoms in elderly individuals diagnosed with hypertension.
  • To identify other factors that may be associated with depressive symptoms in this patient group.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 149 hypertensive older adults.
  • Depressive symptoms were assessed using the PHQ-9 questionnaire.
  • Statistical analyses included bivariate tests and Poisson regression to calculate prevalence ratios (PR).

Main Results:

  • No significant association was found between beta-blocker use and depressive symptoms (PR: 1.09; 95% CI: 0.70-1.69).
  • Increased frailty was significantly associated with a higher risk of depressive symptoms (PR: 5.72; 95% CI: 2.17-15.0).
  • Higher educational attainment (technical or university) was associated with a lower risk of depressive symptoms (PR: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.25-0.74).

Conclusions:

  • Beta-blocker therapy does not appear to be linked to depressive symptoms in older adults with hypertension.
  • Frailty and lower educational levels are significant risk factors for depression in hypertensive elderly patients.
  • Comprehensive assessment of emotional well-being in this population should consider factors beyond medication use, such as frailty and education.
Abstract

Keywords:
Adrenergic beta-AntagonistsAgedDepressionHypertensionPeru

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