Beta-Adrenergic Blocking Agents in Congestive Heart Failure

Authors

Sidney Goldstein

Abstract

Although recent physiologic studies suggest that increased catecholamine release in humans may in the long run represent an adverse homeostatic mechanism, this catecholamine release is acutely important in permitting human response to stress. Clinical interventions with beta-adrenergic blocking agents have showed a salutary effect on cardiac function in patients with severe heart failure: in patients with heart failure associated with myocardial infarction, these agents may help improve mortality rates. These studies indicate that the drugs are well tolerated when used carefully in these high-risk patients.

Recommended Citation

Goldstein, Sidney (1986) "Beta-Adrenergic Blocking Agents in Congestive Heart Failure," Henry Ford Hospital Medical Journal : Vol. 34 : No. 3 , 184-187.
Available at: https://scholarlycommons.henryford.com/hfhmedjournal/vol34/iss3/10