Beta-adrenergic blockade in the prevention of myocardial infarction: a new theory.
Beta-adrenergic blockers have a protective effect in reducing mortality in survivors of myocardial infarction. It is proposed that, in addition to their effects in reducing heart rate, blood pressure, myocardial contractility and ventricular ectopy, beta-blockers may prevent or attenuate the fracture of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques and thereby reduce coronary thrombosis, myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death.
Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore, New York, NY 10461.
W H
WH
Frishman
C M
CM
Chang
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002940:Circadian Rhythm / Q000502:physiology; D003324:Coronary Artery Disease / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D003328:Coronary Thrombosis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006439:Hemodynamics / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000517:prevention & control*
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists