CONTROLLED TRIAL ON PROLONGED LOSARTAN POTASSIUM USE IN RELATION TO CANCER
Abstract
Background: The potential association between antihypertensive drug use and cancer risk is a subject of debate. Although antihypertensive medications are crucial for managing hypertension, concerns have arisen regarding their long-term effects, including carcinogenic potential. This study conducts a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the risk of cancer associated with antihypertensive drug use.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed using multiple databases to identify relevant RCTs. Studies assessing the relationship between antihypertensive drug use and cancer incidence were included. A meta-analysis was conducted using fixed and random-effects models, and heterogeneity among studies was assessed using Cochran’s Q and I² statistics. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed to examine variations in risk across different drug classes.
Results: Data from multiple trials, including large-scale cohort studies, revealed heterogeneous findings. The meta-analysis of various antihypertensive drugs revealed mixed associations with cancer risk. Some studies have indicated a statistically significant increase in cancer risk, particularly with drugs such as calcium channel blockers and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). Notably, the pooled odds ratio (OR) for the fixed-effects model suggested a modest but significant increase in cancer risk (OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.09–1.47, p=0.001). Losartan potassium use was associated with a varied cancer risk, with some studies reporting elevated risk ratios, such as Ranpura et al. (2011) (RR: 5.28, 95% CI: 4.15–6.71, p=0.001). Similarly, amlodipine besylate studies presented inconsistent results, with some reporting a significant association (e.g., Kumar et al., 2020, OR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.23–1.53, p=0.95). Heterogeneity analysis (I² = high) revealed considerable variation in study outcomes. Funnel plot assessment revealed potential publication bias.
Conclusion: This meta-analysis provides evidence of a possible association between specific antihypertensive medications and cancer risk although the findings remain inconclusive due to heterogeneity and potential confounding factors. Further large-scale high-quality RCTs with extended follow-up periods are needed to clarify this relationship. Physicians should weigh the benefits of antihypertensive therapy against potential risks, emphasizing individualized assistance
Keywords:
Antihypertensive drugs, cancer risk, meta-analysis, systematic review, randomized controlled trials, hypertension, pharmacovigilanceDownloads
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Copyright (c) 2025 Audi Najib Isyaku, Mary U. Adehi, Nweze Obini Nweze, Bilkisu Maijama'a, Saidu Rabo Yahaya, Yahaya Muhammad Musa
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