The Relationship Between Blood Pressure Medications and Mood Disorders

Common medications for controlling blood pressure may increase the risk of mood disorders. According to a recent study, individuals who have been using medications known as beta blockers and calcium channel blockers for more than 90 days may be twice as likely to be hospitalized for mood disorders, depression, or bipolar disorder compared to those using angiotensin antagonists for blood pressure control. According to Reuters, beta blockers include medications such as propranolol, metoprolol, and atenolol. Calcium channel blockers include amlodipine, nifedipine, verapamil, and diltiazem, while losartan, valsartan, telmisartan, and candesartan are angiotensin blockers. However, Dr. Sandosh Padmanabhan, a member of the Institute of Cardiovascular Medical Sciences at the University of Glasgow in the UK, believes that individuals taking these medications should not change or stop their medications. He emphasizes, 'People should take their medications because they are effective and prevent heart attacks and strokes.' According to Dr. Padmanabhan, one of the authors of this recent study published in the journal Hypertension, both depression and heart diseases are common ailments, and their relationship is bidirectional. For example, bipolar disorder may double the risk of high blood pressure and even death from heart problems. On the other hand, there is evidence suggesting that beta blockers may lead to mood issues such as depression. Some recent genetic data also indicates that calcium antagonists may contribute to these diseases. Dr. Man Fars, a cardiovascular disease specialist, also agrees that patients should not change their medications based on the findings of this new research.