New developments in the use of beta-blockers for the management of heart failure.
Chronic heart failure (HF) has become a significant healthcare problem in the US. The number of new cases per year continues to grow steadily due to an ageing population and improved survival from acute coronary syndromes. As a consequence, the management of HF patients is of great importance. Effective management of HF includes stabilising the patient and improving the clinical symptoms associated with HF. Patients with HF have increased sympathetic nervous system activity that contributes to impaired cardiovascular function over time and subsequently results in death. beta-blockers prevent such impairment through inhibition of the sympathetic nervous system neurohormonal pathway. Numerous clinical trials conducted over the past decade have demonstrated that beta-blockers, in conjunction with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, are not only effective but are superior to other medical interventions for the treatment of HF. The standard of care for patients with HF now includes beta-blockers as well as ACE inhibitors.
Ohlstein
Eliot H
EH
GlaxoSmithKline, Cardiovascular and Urogenital Diseases CEDD, UW23-2032A, 709 Swedeland Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406, USA. eliot.h.ohlstein@gsk.com
Romanic
Anne M
AM
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists