Abstract
Compelling data from multiple clinical trials have revealed a significant reduction in mortality risk among heart failure patients who are treated with β-blockers. The magnitude of the benefit is 30% to 35%, and the data have indicated a reduction of at least 35% to 40% in the risk of death or hospitalization for worsening heart failure. The message contained in those data has yet to be heard by many physicians in clinical practice. Underuse of β-blockers as heart failure therapy remains a major obstacle to improved treatment. The rationale for use of β-blockers in the treatment of heart failure is at least as sound as the justification for use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. The weight of the clinical evidence has created a mandate for prescribing β-blockers for the vast majority of stable class II or III heart failure patients.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | S313-S317 |
Journal | American Journal of Managed Care |
Volume | 6 |
Issue number | 6 SUPPL. |
State | Published - Apr 1 2000 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Health Policy