Sertraline Prevents Hypotension During Hemodialysis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Hemodialysis-induced hypotension is one of the most common problems in patients, who undergo hemodialysis. Evidence suggests the positive impacts of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) on preventing hypotension during dialysis. The current study investigated the hypothesis that sertraline could effectively prevent hypotension during hemodialysis. Methods: In a clinical trial, 30 patients on hemodialysis with hypotension during hemodialysis, who were referred to Tabriz University of Medical Sciences were enrolled. Patients were treated with sertraline at a dose of 50 mg daily for 2 weeks. Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and heart rate of patients before and after the intervention were measured and compared. Adverse events due to the administration of sertraline were also evaluated in the patients. Results: Of the 30 studied patients, 17 (56.7%) were male and 13 (43.3%) were female. Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure increased significantly after sertraline administration (P = 0.001). Also, the mean heart rate of patients significantly decreased (P = 0.001). However, headache was seen in 7 (23.3%), dizziness in 3 (10.0%), and gastrointestinal complications in 2 (6.7%) patients. Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, sertraline effectively and safely prevents hypotension during dialysis without causing serious side effects.