beta-Adrenergic receptor blockers and heart failure risk after myocardial infarction: a critical review.

Abstract

Remodeling after myocardial infarction is a complex biological process that leads to progressive left ventricular dilation and clinical heart failure. Multiple influences, including autonomic imbalance with sympathetic activation, contribute to the process. This article reviews clinical data in favor of early- and long-term use of beta-adrenergic receptor blockers in patients after myocardial infarction. Areas of uncertainty, such as the selection of dose and duration of therapy, current guidelines, and patterns of underuse of therapy with this important class of drugs are outlined and highlighted.

• Authors: Robert H Neumayr, Paul J Hauptman
• Journal: Current heart failure reports (Curr Heart Fail Rep) Vol. 6 Issue 4 Pg. 220-8 (Dec 2009) ISSN: 1546-9549 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 19948090 (Publication Type: News)

Chemical References

• Adrenergic beta-Antagonists

Topics

• Adrenergic beta-Antagonists (therapeutic use)
• Heart Failure (etiology, physiopathology, prevention & control)
• Humans
• Myocardial Infarction (complications, drug therapy)
• Risk Factors
• Treatment Outcome
• Ventricular Remodeling (drug effects)