Managing beta-blockers in acute heart failure: When to start and when to stop?

Abstract

The role of ?-blockers in heart failure has been long debated. Data from chronic heart failure studies clearly indicate that ?-blockers save lives. However, data concerning use of ?-blockers in patients with acute heart failure are limited, and only recently have emerged to help guide therapy. In this review, we provide an overview of when to stop and when to start ?-blockers in patients with acute heart failure. © 2010 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.