Abstract
Extensive randomised clinical trial (datasupportthe view that β-blockers have a significant impact opífdíQpd s of patients with cardiovascular disease, especially those with coronary artery isease and chronic heart failure. Unfortunatdje is essential treatment is often withheld from patients with asthma and from som patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The principal concern, concern supported by a number of guidelines, is that β-blockers may pcipitate a vere and potentially fatal bronchospasm. However, a number YXxäre ies, culminating in a recent meta-analysis, show that cardioselective β-blockers are not only safe but are beneficial in patients with co-existing airways and coronary disease. In this article we review the evidence supporting the position that cardioselective β-blockers, when introduced with care in both community and hospital settings, are safe in patients with mild airways disease and can significantly improve prognosis.
Keywords: Beta blockers, Asthma, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Cardiovascular, Myocardial infarction, Heart failure (CHF)
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