β-blockers and their mortality benefits: underprescribed in heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

This article discusses the most recent insights into the actions of β-blockers on the heart and lungs, highlighting that β-blockers should have a place in the treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), especially in those with coexisting cardiovascular disease or arterial hypertension. Practical studies clearly show underutilization of β-blockers in patients with heart failure and COPD, which seems to be caused by an unnecessary fear for adverse effects on the lungs, and the ‘outdated’ adverse effects mentioned on instruction leaflets.