Efficacy of beta-blocker supplementation for schizophrenia: a systematic review of randomized trials

Adrenergic beta-receptor antagonists, commonly used in the field of cardiov ascular diseases, have also been recommended for treatment-resistant schizo phrenia. We systematically review quality assessed trials on beta-blocker s upplementation of antipsychotic treatment for schizophrenia. All randomized controlled trials comparing any beta-blocking agent added to any antipsych otic with a placebo added to any antipsychotic, and lasting for at least 1 week, were located through electronic searches in all languages of several databases. The trials were assessed by at least two independent reviewers f or inclusion, quality score, and data extraction. The reviewers located fiv e studies with 117 participants. The data were poorly presented in these sh ort-term studies and did not evidence any effect of beta-blockers as an adj unct to conventional antipsychotic medication. At present beta-blockers can not be recommended in the treatment of schizophrenia, and schizophrenia tre atment guidelines advocating use of beta-blockers should be revised. (C) 20 00 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.