RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07099677

Short-Term Effects of Antihypertensive Drugs on Postural Balance and Fall Risk

The Effect of Antihypertensive Medication Use on Fall Risk: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Sponsor

Abant Izzet Baysal University

Enrollment

186 participants

Start Date

Aug 1, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Hypertension Postural Balance Fall Risk Fear of Falling

Summary

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.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 75 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is examining whether common blood pressure medications affect a person's balance and increase the risk of falling — a concern especially when people first start taking these drugs and experience a sudden drop in blood pressure when they stand up. **You may be eligible if...** - You are aged 18–75 - You have just been diagnosed with high blood pressure (hypertension) for the first time - You have not yet started any blood pressure medication - You can walk independently without assistance - You have no known balance, inner ear, bone, or psychiatric problems **You may NOT be eligible if...** - Your high blood pressure is caused by another medical condition (secondary hypertension) - You have an inner ear disorder (e.g., BPPV or Ménière's disease) - You take medications that can affect balance (such as sedatives or antipsychotics) - You have fallen due to a trauma unrelated to balance problems - You have cognitive impairment that would prevent you from completing the balance tests Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

DRUGBeta Blocker

Participants in this group will receive standard antihypertensive treatment with a beta-adrenergic receptor blocker. The exact agent and dosage will be determined by the cardiology clinic according to clinical guidelines. Balance and fall risk assessments will be conducted at baseline (T0), week 2 (T1), and week 4 (T2).

DRUGACE inhibitor

Participants in this group will receive standard antihypertensive treatment with an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor. The dose and specific agent will be prescribed based on routine clinical criteria. Assessments will take place at T0, T1, and T2.

DRUGCalcium channel blocker

This group will receive a calcium channel blocker as part of their standard hypertension management. Dosage and agent will follow standard cardiology practice. Postural balance and fall risk will be measured at all study time points.