Β-blockers and their mortality benefits: underprescribed in heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. (January 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rutten, Frans H
• Is Part Of: Future cardiology. Volume 7:Number 1(2011)
• Page Start: 43
• Page End: 53
• Publication Date: 2011-01
• Subjects: adverse effect -- β-blockers -- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease -- heart failure -- pathways; Cardiology -- Research -- Periodicals; 616.12005
• DOI: 10.2217/fca.10.119
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1479-6678

Abstract

This article discusses the most recent insights into the actions of β-blockers on the heart and lungs, highlighting that β-blockers should have a place in the treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), especially in those with coexisting cardiovascular disease or arterial hypertension. Practical studies clearly show underutilization of β-blockers in patients with heart failure and COPD, which seems to be caused by an unnecessary fear for adverse effects on the lungs, and the 'outdated' adverse effects mentioned on instruction leaflets.