Systemic adverse effects of beta-adrenergic blockers: an evidence-based assessment.
OBJECTIVE
To present an evidence-based review of the systemic adverse effects of beta-adrenergic blockers and recommend safety guidelines for use of ophthalmic beta-adrenergic blockers.


METHODS
Literature review of published articles in peer-reviewed journals and medical texts.


METHODS
Pre-MEDLINE and MEDLINE search of relevant English language articles from 1966 to the present. Cardiovascular, pulmonary, endocrine/metabolic, central nervous system, sexual, exercise, and neuromuscular effects of systemic or ophthalmic beta-adrenergic blockers were reviewed.


RESULTS
Systemic beta-adrenergic antagonists unequivocally reduce mortality in patients with mild, moderate, and even severe congestive heart failure. Development of symptomatic bradycardia on systemic or ophthalmic beta-adrenergic blockers alone likely indicates underlying cardiac conduction disturbances. Beta 2-adrenergic blockade, regardless of route of administration, may exacerbate or trigger bronchospasm in patients with asthma or pulmonary disease associated with hyper-reactive airways. This review identifies no scientific studies supporting the development of worsening claudication, depression, hypoglycemic unawareness, or prolonged hypoglycemia in non-insulin-dependent diabetes, sexual dysfunction, or impaired neuromuscular transmission with systemic or ophthalmic beta-adrenergic blockers.


CONCLUSIONS
Many commonly presumed adverse beta-adrenergic blocker effects observed via systemic or ocular administration are not supported by published randomized clinical trials. Wide acceptance of such traditionally purported side effects has been largely due to propagation of isolated case reports and short series as well as personal communication felt to reflect expert opinion. Many more patients may be eligible to use these drugs. Obtaining a careful medical history and checking pulse rate and rhythm in the office should identify the vast majority of patients with potential cardiopulmonary contraindications.
Lama
Paul J
PJ
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ), New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA. lamapj@umdnj.edu
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D000075202:Contraindications; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions / Q000009:adverse effects; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012449:Safety
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions