Study: Beta blockers won't cause depression, but are linked to sleep issues By (0) New research shows concern that beta blockers could cause depression is unfounded, though the medications have been linked to sleep issues. Photo by frolicsomepl/Pixabay Millions of people take a beta blocker regularly, and a new study brings good news: The medications will not raise the risk of depression. Beta blockers are used to treat conditions such as heart failure, chest pains, high blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythm. Advertisement But it's long been suspected that the drugs may be linked with depression, anxiety, drowsiness, insomnia, hallucinations and nightmares.