Associations between β-blockers and psychiatric and behavioural outcomes: A population-based cohort study of 1.4 million adolescents
Recent studies have linked the use of β-blockers to an increased risk of psychiatric and behavioural outcomes in adolescents. β-blockers are a type of medication often prescribed for various cardiovascular conditions, such as hypertension, arrhythmia, and angina.
A recent study conducted in Sweden investigated whether there is a link between the use of β-blockers and psychiatric and behavioural outcomes in adolescents. The study used data from the Swedish National Patient Register and the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register. It included a cohort of 1.4 million adolescents aged 10–17 years, who were followed up for an average of 8.2 years. During this time, 12% of the adolescents had been prescribed β-blockers.
The study found that β-blocker use was associated with an increased risk of psychiatric and behavioural outcomes. Adolescents who were prescribed β-blockers were more likely to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital, have a diagnosis of a psychiatric disorder, or be prescribed a psychotropic medication. The risk was particularly increased for diagnoses of anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
These findings suggest that β-blocker use in adolescents is associated with an increased risk of psychiatric and behavioural outcomes. The authors of the study suggest that further research is needed to better understand the mechanism behind this association and to develop strategies to reduce the risk of adverse outcomes. Clinicians should be aware of this potential risk and should monitor adolescents closely if they are prescribed β-blockers.