[Beta blocker induced depression. A case report].
BACKGROUND
Although association between beta blockers and depression has been reported since decades ago, the subject is still controversial. Most evidence supporting an association has been based on case reports or case series. Epidemiologic studies and randomized clinical trials have not generally supported this association. If this association exists, possible causes of disparity of findings may include methodological difficulties, and/or weak association.


METHODS
We present a case of a 67 year old woman, without personal history of psychiatric illness or stress factors, who develops a depressive episode after initiating treatment with atenolol. The symptoms remitted rapidly when atenolol was discontinued, and an antidepressant was prescribed during a short period.


CONCLUSIONS
This case report suggests the existence of an association between a beta blocker, atenolol, and depression.
Acosta Artiles
F
F
Servicio de Psiquiatría. Hospital Universitario Insular de Gran Canaria. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Spain. fjacostaartiles@hotmail.com
Suárez Cabrera
M
M
Acosta Artiles
M
M
Acosta Artiles
P
P
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000368:Aged; D001262:Atenolol / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003863:Depression / Q000139:chemically induced*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D001262:Atenolol