Figure 1. Study design.

Carvedilol and metoprolol initiators were defined as hemodialysis patients who had no record of a beta-blocker prescription in the previous 180 days (beta-blocker washout period). Among these patients, the index date was defined as the date of carvedilol or metoprolol initiation. Baseline covariates were identified in the 180-day period prior to the index date. Study follow-up began immediately after the index date. To ensure all potential study patients were eligible for Medicare coverage regardless of their age, individuals needed to have a dialysis vintage > 90 days at the start of the baseline period.

Abbreviations: Rx, prescription