Recruiting

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

ClinicalTrials.gov IDNCT07099677

PhaseNA

Enrollment186

SponsorAbant Izzet Baysal University

Age18 Years

SexALL

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Conditions studied

Hypertension, Fall Risk, Postural Balance, Fear of Falling

About this study

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.

Interventions

Drug: Beta 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).
Drug: ACE 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.
Drug: Calcium 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.

Primary outcomes

Fall Risk Score (Biodex Balance System) (Baseline (T0), Week 2 (T1), Week 4 (T2))

Eligibility information

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)

Study locations

Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, Izzet Baysal Training and Research Hospital, Bolu, 14030 Turkey (Türkiye)

Before you participate: Varda Clinical is an independent discovery tool, not the study sponsor or a medical provider. Eligibility can only be determined by the official study team. Discuss potential risks and benefits with a qualified healthcare professional.

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov. Record last refreshed by Varda Clinical: 2026-09-27.