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from eMedTV.comThe title of one research study published by Ried and colleagues probably most ably states what the literature says about depression and atenolol: "Beta-blockers and Depression: The More the Murkier?" The fact is that despite considerable research in this area, healthcare providers cannot say with certainty that beta blockers, including atenolol, cause depression. They also cannot say with certainty that beta blockers do not cause depression.
Depression is extremely common in society today. In fact, in any given one-year period, 9.5 percent of the population (about 18.8 million American adults) suffers from depression. Therefore, knowing the symptoms of depression can be helpful.
Possible depression symptoms may include:
- A persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
- Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex
- Decreased energy, fatigue, and being "slowed down"
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, and making decisions
- Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
- Appetite and/or weight loss or overeating and weight gain
- Thoughts of death or suicide and suicide attempts
- Restlessness and irritability
- Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain.
Keep in mind that there are other conditions that can share similar symptoms with depression.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD