Effects of a β-blocker on bone turnover in normal postmenopausal women:: A randomized controlled trial

Introduction: The central nervous system has been demonstrated to regulate bone mass in mice, possibly via the beta(2)-adrenoreceptors on osteoblasts. beta-blockers increase bone mass in mice, and some observational studies have suggested a beneficial effect of these drugs on bone in humans Experimental Subjects: We studied 41 normal postmenopausal women. Materials and Methods: We conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, comparing the effects on bone markers of propranolol 160 mg/d and placebo over 3 months. Results: Serum osteocalcin declined by almost 20 % in the first 2 wk of propranolol treatment, and this effect increased over time (P < 0.0001). Other osteoblast markers, procollagen type-I N-terminal propeptide and total alkaline phosphatase activity, were not significantly changed by propranolol. Urine free deoxypyridinoline declined approximately 10 % between 0 and 6 wk (P = 0.019) in the beta-blocker group and was stable thereafter. Serum C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen also showed a small decrease, but this was not significantly different between groups. Serum albumin concentrations decreased by more than 2 g/liter in the first 2 wk of propranolol treatment, remaining stable subsequently (P = 0.007). Serum creatinine tended to increase in the propranolol group (P = 0.06), as did weight. Bone densities in the lumbar spine and total proximal femur did not change significantly in either group. Conclusions: The present study provides no evidence that beta-blocker drugs stimulate bone formation; if anything, propranolol reduces osteoblast activity. It also influences renal function and fluid balance, effects that might indirectly affect bone metabolism. Current evidence does not justify the use of beta-blockers for treatment of osteoporosis.