Role of β-Blockers Across the Cardiovascular Continuum: A Real-World Perception Survey (ROBUST)

BACKGROUND: Understanding Indian healthcare professionals' (HCPs) perceptions of beta (β)-blockers is critical, given the high burden of hypertension (HTN) and cardiovascular (CV) diseases in the country. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1,000 Indian HCPs, including consulting physicians, cardiologists, and specialists in diabetes/metabolism experienced in managing adult patients across the HTN and CV disease continuum. Conducted between April 2023 and March 2024, the survey employed a 26-item structured questionnaire, developed through literature review and expert consultation, to assess β-blockers utilization patterns, prescribing preferences, and perceived barriers. RESULTS: Responses from 855 HCPs were analyzed. Consulting physicians (431; 50.4%) and cardiologists (342; 40.0%) formed the majority. β-blockers were prescribed to 25-50% of patients with HTN by 489 (57.2%) HCPs. Approximately 429 (50.2%) observed a systolic BP reduction of 10-15 mm Hg, while 465 (54.4%) reported a diastolic BP reduction of 5-10 mm Hg. β-blockers were commonly prescribed for heart failure (381; 44.6%), postmyocardial infarction (214; 25%), and chronic coronary syndrome (309; 36.1%). Metoprolol was the preferred BB in 75% of HTN, post-MI, chronic coronary syndrome (CCS), and AF cases, and in 66.2% for HF management. CONCLUSION: This survey highlights real-world prescribing patterns and perceptions of β-blockers in India, with metoprolol emerging as the most preferred agent across multiple CV indications, reflecting its strong clinical acceptance and perceived efficacy.