Use of beta-adrenergic blocking agents after myocardial infarction.

Abstract

Long-term clinical trials have been carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of beta-adrenergic blocking agents in modifying the natural history of myocardial infarction (MI). In most of these studies, a lower mortality rate was documented in patients receiving a beta-blocker than in those receiving placebo. The drugs may have both antiarrhythmic and antiischemic effects. In patients without contraindications to beta-blocker treatment, a relative reduction in mortality of 25% can be expected for at least one to two years, with the reduction higher in older patients or patients having complications at infarction. Study results indicate benefit from starting beta-blocker therapy early after infarction, and some benefit from starting late seems a reasonable assumption. Evidence also points to a benefit from prolonged therapy. Beta-blockers are well tolerated in most patients; those major side effects that do occur are often cardiovascular.

• Authors: W H Frishman, J Ruggio, C Furberg
• Journal: Postgraduate medicine (Postgrad Med) Vol. 78 Issue 8 Pg. 40-6, 49-53 (Dec 1985) ISSN: 0032-5481 [Print] England
• PMID: 2866506 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Adrenergic beta-Antagonists
• Propranolol

Topics

• Adrenergic beta-Antagonists (administration & dosage, adverse effects, pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Clinical Trials as Topic
• Double-Blind Method
• Heart Failure (chemically induced)
• Humans
• Myocardial Infarction (drug therapy, mortality)
• Propranolol (adverse effects)
• Random Allocation
• Risk