A comprehensive review of beta blockers in hypertension management: efficacy across different patient populations
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
Hypertension is a leading global health concern, contributing to significant morbidity and mortality. While β-blockers remain a cornerstone of antihypertensive therapy by reducing heart rate through β1 receptor blockade, their efficacy varies across different demographic groups due to biological, socioeconomic, and lifestyle factors. This thesis investigates how gender, socioeconomic status (SES), race, age, comorbidities, and non-biological influences impact the effectiveness of β-blockers in hypertension management. Gender differences, influenced by hormonal variations and body composition, can affect drug response, while SES-related barriers such as healthcare access, medication adherence, and psychosocial stress further modulate treatment success. Lifestyle factors, including smoking, alcohol use, and diet, complicate β-blocker efficacy, as do comorbid conditions and polypharmacy, which alter drug metabolism and pharmacodynamics. Racial and ethnic disparities in hypertension prevalence and control highlight both biological and societal influences on treatment outcomes. Additionally, age-related changes in metabolism and cardiovascular function necessitate tailored approaches to β- blocker therapy in older adults. By analyzing these variables, this research underscores the importance of a personalized approach to hypertension treatment. Understanding how demographic and socioeconomic factors influence β-blocker efficacy can inform more targeted and equitable treatment strategies, ultimately improving blood pressure control and patient outcomes.
Description
2025