The Effects of Sertraline on Dialysis-Induced Hypotension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
<b>Background/Objectives:</b> Dialysis-induced hypotension (DIH) affects 10-30% of hemodialysis sessions and increases mortality. Sertraline may stabilize blood pressure by modulating the Bezold-Jarisch reflex. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of sertraline for preventing DIH. <b>Methods:</b> We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov through December 2025. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed using standardized mean differences (SMD). <b>Results:</b> Nine studies (140 patients) met inclusion criteria. Sertraline significantly increased mean arterial pressure (SMD: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.52-1.22; <i>p</i> < 0.001), corresponding to approximately 8.5 mmHg. DIH episodes decreased by 35% (RR: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.48-0.88). Heterogeneity was moderate (I<sup>2</sup> = 42%). Among studies reporting safety data (n = 106), adverse events were mild (14%) with no serious events. No publication bias was detected (Egger's <i>p</i> = 0.21). <b>Conclusions:</b> Sertraline significantly improves hemodynamic stability during hemodialysis with a favorable safety profile. It represents a promising option for DIH, particularly in patients with comorbid depression or contraindications to midodrine.
Authors
- Ibrahim H. Tawhari (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6605-6088)
- Mushary Saeed Alqahtani
- Mohammed A. Alshehri
- Khaled Abdulwahab Amer
Institutions
- Armed Forces Hospital (SA)
- Asir Central Hospital (SA)
- King Khalid University (SA)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Healthcare
- Published
- 2026-03-04
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14050646
- Primary Topic
- Dialysis and Renal Disease Management
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00