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.

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Journal
Healthcare
Published
2026-03-04
DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14050646
Primary Topic
Dialysis and Renal Disease Management
Type
article
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article

The Effects of Sertraline on Dialysis-Induced Hypotension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Ibrahim H. Tawhari, Mushary Saeed Alqahtani, Mohammed A. Alshehri, Khaled Abdulwahab Amer
Healthcare
Dialysis and Renal Disease Management
article

The Effects of Sertraline on Dialysis-Induced Hypotension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Ibrahim H. Tawhari, Mushary Saeed Alqahtani, Mohammed A. Alshehri, Khaled Abdulwahab Amer
article en

Abstract

<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.

HealthcareVol. 14(5)
Armed Forces Hospital (SA), Asir Central Hospital (SA), King Khalid University (SA)
Good health and well-being
Openalex Percentile: Top 42%
Dialysis and Renal Disease Management
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