Effects of beta blockers on body temperature in older adults during heat exposure
Official title: Aging, Beta Blockers, and Thermoregulatory Responses
Run by University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center · NCT06582680 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how two common heart medications, propranolol and metoprolol, affect body temperature in older adults when they are exposed to extreme heat.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 22 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Dallas, Texas) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 4, 2024 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | September 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | October 23, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06582680 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are healthy individuals aged 65 and older with controlled cholesterol and blood pressure.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with chronic conditions requiring regular medication or those with significant health issues will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates how the beta blocker medications propranolol and metoprolol affect core body temperature in older adults when exposed to extreme heat. It aims to understand the thermoregulatory responses of healthy individuals aged 65 and older, as they are at higher risk for heat-related illnesses and deaths. By simulating heat wave conditions, the study will evaluate the physiological changes in body temperature and sweating responses due to these medications. The findings could provide insights into the safety and health risks associated with beta blocker use in the elderly during hot weather.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved guidelines for managing heat stress in older adults taking beta blockers.
How similar studies have gone: While studies have explored beta blockers in younger populations, this specific investigation in older adults during heat exposure is novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy and free of any significant medical problems * Normal resting electrocardiogram * 65+ years of age * Controlled cholesterol of less than 200 mg/dl * Controlled blood pressure of less than 140/90 mmHg Exclusion Criteria: * Known diseases or other chronic conditions requiring regular medical therapy including cancer, diabetes, neurological diseases, uncontrolled hypertension, and uncontrolled hypercholesterolemia * Serious abnormalities detected on routine screening * Taking prescribed medications or over-the-counter medications that have known influences on either cardiac function or sweating * Current smokers, as well as individuals who regularly smoked within the past 3 years * body mass index ≥31 kg/m2
Where it's running
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IEEM Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas
Dallas, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Craig Crandall, PhD — Univ of Texas Southwestern Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Erin Harper, MS
- Email: erinharper@texashealth.org
- Phone: 214-345-4737
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.