Association between antihypertensive drug use and the risk of depression: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

Abstract

Hypertension is the biggest and most prevalent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Depression is the most common psychiatric illness worldwide. Many studies have linked the development of new depression to the use of antihypertensive drugs. This meta-analysis was done to ascertain the relationship. Using standard reporting techniques a literature search was undertaken in Pubmed from inception till 10 May 2024. The risk bias assessment was done using the ROBINS-I tool. Data for the odds ratio were combined using Revman 5.4 using a random or fixed effects model. Our analysis found a significant association between beta blockers and calcium channel blockers use and the risk of developing new depression. Results for other classes of antihypertensives were not significant. The findings highlight the importance of taking into account the potential psychiatric side effects of antihypertensive drugs in people with hypertension. Physicians should stay vigilant and screen their patients for these conditions regularly.