Beta-blockers reduce COPD flares and improve survival in COPD with CVD: ESC study
Researchers have found in a new study that beta-blocker use is associated with reduced in-hospital and all-cause mortality among patients with COPD and CVD. Especially the use of cardioselective beta-blockers is associated with reduced risk of COPD exacerbation.The study has been published in European Heart Journal.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death and is estimated to rise to be the third most common cause of death worldwide by 2020. Many patients with COPD have concomitant conditions, mostly coronary artery disease (CAD), that require the use of beta-blockers (BBs). The prevalence of COPD in patients with heart failure ranges from 20% to 32% of cases, and the prevalence of heart failure in COPD patients is >20%. Data from the REPOSI registry indicate a prevalence of heart failure close to 30% in COPD patients aged >65 years with comorbidities.
However, despite the clear evidence of BBs effectiveness, there is a general reluctance to use them in patients with COPD due to a perceived contraindication and fear of inducing adverse reactions and bronchospasm.
Yang YL et al. conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 49 studies (12 RCTs, 37 cohort or case-control studies), comprising 670,594 patients. They evaluated the effects of beta-blockers in patients with COPD and CVD. The major outcomes assessed were COPD exacerbation, all-cause mortality, and in-hospital mortality.
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