A study by St. Michael’s Hospital suggests that a common type of blood pressure medication, called angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), may be linked to a higher risk of suicide compared to another widely used drug, ACE inhibitors.
While the findings raise concerns, researchers emphasize the need for further investigation before making definitive conclusions.
Both ARBs and ACE inhibitors are prescribed to manage high blood pressure, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes. These medications work by targeting a hormone called angiotensin II, which causes blood vessels to tighten, raising blood pressure.
ARBs block angiotensin II from attaching to receptors in the body, preventing blood vessel constriction. ACE inhibitors, on the other hand, reduce the production of angiotensin II in the body.
In the study, researchers analyzed Canadian health records to track nearly 1,000 people who died by suicide within 100 days of being prescribed either ARBs or ACE inhibitors.
They compared these individuals to a control group of over 3,000 people who were also taking one of these drugs. The results showed that people on ARBs were 63% more likely to die by suicide than those taking ACE inhibitors.
One possible explanation for this increased risk is how ARBs affect angiotensin II levels in the brain. Researchers believe ARBs may lead to higher levels of this hormone in the brain, which could influence mood and potentially trigger suicidal behavior.
However, the study also noted that other factors, such as concurrent use of antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, might have played a role in increasing the suicide risk among these patients.
While the findings are concerning, the researchers caution that more studies are needed to confirm the link between ARBs and suicide.
They recommend that patients taking ARBs discuss their concerns with their healthcare providers. In some cases, switching to an ACE inhibitor may be an option, but any changes to medication should only be made under medical supervision.
This study highlights the importance of monitoring mental health alongside physical health, especially when managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure.
Patients are encouraged to share any changes in mood, anxiety, or feelings of depression with their doctors, as early intervention can make a significant difference.
High blood pressure is a major health issue, and managing it effectively often involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and regular check-ups. Studies have shown that dietary factors can also play a role.
For example, vitamin D may help reduce depression symptoms, while cinnamon has been found to lower high blood pressure. On the flip side, consuming too much black licorice can lead to dangerously high blood pressure and should be avoided.
The study, led by Muhammad Mamdani, was published in JAMA Network Open.
While the potential link between ARBs and suicide risk warrants further investigation, the research underscores the importance of personalized care and open communication between patients and healthcare providers.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about unhealthy habits that could increase high blood pressure risk, and people with severe high blood pressure should reduce coffee intake.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies that early time-restricted eating could help improve blood pressure, and results showing plant-based foods could benefit people with high blood pressure.
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