Why the study?
Do beta-blockers improve morbidity and mortality in patients with COPD and coexisting cardiovascular disease?
Do beta-blockers improve morbidity and mortality in patients with COPD and coexisting cardiovascular disease?
This editorial discusses the underuse of beta-blockers in patients with COPD and cardiovascular disease due to fears of worsening lung function, despite evidence of benefit.
Cardiovascular disease, which is common in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), has a profound effect on morbidity and mortality,1 yet the condition is often unrecognized and as a result is undertreated.2 Systematic reviews have recognized the underuse of beta-blockers in patients with COPD who have coexisting cardiovascular disease because of fear of worsening lung function.3 Beta-blockers have positive effects on morbidity and mortality in patients with heart failure and in those who have had a myocardial infarction.4,5 Most retrospective observational studies have suggested that such positive effects also occur in patients with COPD who have cardiovascular disease.6,7 Along . . .
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
William MacNee (2019) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: