Posted by Larry Hoover on February 3, 2008, at 14:46:15
In reply to Re: Beta Blockers and Depression » Larry Hoover, posted by Abby Cunningham on February 2, 2008, at 9:49:45
> eMedicine says atenolol does not cross the BBB. If that is the case how can it cause depression? Just trying to understand. And should I try the other beta blocker in such a small dose?
> Thanks,
> AbbyWell, they can say whatever they want. Way back in 1983, atenolol was shown to have central (i.e. CNS) effects in healthy volunteers. The clinical trials showed greater incidence of depression and (presumably vivid) dreaming with atenolol compared to placebo. And a recent study showed up to seven-fold higher incidence of depression (in those said to be at risk for depression) in atenolol-treated subjects compared to those on verapamil, and greater that 3-fold higher incidence in those with a history of depression.
See: http://www.psychosomaticmedicine.org/cgi/content-nw/full/67/3/398/F39
I don't know if it does or does not cross the BBB. It does have depressogenic activity, nonetheless.
You needn't switch to another drug if you're not adversely affected by it. Or, were you thinking of switching because you might be?
Lar
poster:Larry Hoover
thread:809406
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20080124/msgs/810537.html