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

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

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).

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.

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.

Study 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

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Fall Risk Score (Biodex Balance System) — Baseline (T0), Week 2 (T1), Week 4 (T2)
  Objective assessment of fall risk using the Fall Risk Test on the Biodex Balance System. Higher scores indicate greater fall risk.

Trial sites (1)

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