Evaluation of the effects of β1-selective beta-blockers on bone mineral density and fracture risk in postmenopausal women

Abstract

Background/aim: β1-selective beta-blockers (BBs) are sympatholytic agents, and discerning their effects on bone health would be ofgreat importance. This study aimed to investigate the influence of β1-selective BBs on bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture risk.Materials and methods: This study included postmenopausal women who used β1-selective BBs (BB group) and control group.Sociodemographic characteristics, BMD and previous fragility fractures were recorded. Additionally, the 10-year probability of a majorosteoporotic and hip fracture was calculated using the fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX).Results: A total of 60 participants were included in the study. L1-4 and L2-4 BMD values were significantly higher in BB group thancontrol group (P = 0.015 and P = 0.025, respectively). Moreover, T-scores of lumbar and femur total were significantly higher in theBB group. Two patients in BB and 6 patients in control group had previous fragility fracture. No statistically significant intergroupdifference was noted regarding FRAX.Conclusion: Based on our results, β1-selective BB usage was associated with higher BMD at the lumbar region in postmenopausalwomen.