Short-Term Effects of Antihypertensive Drugs on Postural Balance and Fall Risk
Recruiting · NCT07099677 · Interventional (participants receive a specific treatment) · Lead sponsor: Abant Izzet Baysal University
View the official record on ClinicalTrials.gov →Interventions studied
What this trial is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to compare the short-term effects of three commonly prescribed antihypertensive drug classes (beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers) on postural balance and fall risk in adults with newly diagnosed primary hypertension. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Do different antihypertensive drugs affect objective balance performance and fall risk? * What are the effects of these medications on dizziness and fear of falling? Researchers will use a balance analysis system (Biodex Balance System) and self-reported scales (Dizziness Handicap Inventory and Falls Efficacy Scale) to assess outcomes. Participants will: * Be randomly assigned to one of three drug groups (metoprolol, ramipril, or amlodipine) * Be evaluated at baseline (prior to treatment), at 2 weeks, and at 4 weeks after starting treatment * Complete balance tests and questionnaires at each time point This study aims to provide clinical insight into how commonly used blood pressure medications may impact balance and fall risk in real-world settings.
Who can take part
Inclusion criteria
- Aged between 18 and 75 years
- Newly diagnosed with primary hypertension
- No prior use of antihypertensive medication
- No history of neurological, vestibular, orthopedic, or psychiatric conditions affecting balance
- Able to walk independently without assistive devices
- Provided written informed consent to participate in the study
Exclusion criteria
- Secondary hypertension
- Known diagnosis of vestibular disorders (e.g., BPPV, Ménière's disease)
- Use of medications that may affect balance (e.g., sedatives, psychotropic drugs)
- History of falls due to trauma unrelated to balance
- Cognitive impairment preventing proper test participation
- Inability to complete the assessments at follow-up timepoints (2nd and 4th week)
Where it is running
1 location listed.
- Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, Izzet Baysal Training and Research Hospital - Bolu, Turkey (Türkiye)