beta blockers (HF) Flashcards
1
Q
What do beta blockers inhibit?
A
chronic SNS activation in HF
2
Q
What do they block?
A
beta adrenoceptors
3
Q
What patients should use them?
A
- patients with LV systolic dysfunction (LVEF < 40%)
- asymptomatic with LV systolic dysfunction after MI
- stable NYHA 2-4
4
Q
3 UK licensed agents
A
bisoprolol
carvedilol
nebivolol
5
Q
How must patients be stable before treatment?
A
no physical evidence of fluid retention
no need for IV inotropic drug treatment
6
Q
Where are beta blockers initiated?
A
in hospital
7
Q
What should be assessed after every dose titration?
A
HR
BP
clinical ststus
8
Q
side effects of beta blockers
A
- hypotension
- fluid retention -> worsening HF
- bradycardia (slow heart) / heart block
- fatigue
9
Q
When should beta blockers be discontinued?
A
only in severe deterioration
10
Q
What do beta blockers increase the density of?
A
beta 1 receptors
11
Q
What do beta blockers inhibit?
A
cardiotoxic effects of catecholamines
12
Q
What other good effects do they have?
A
- decrease neurohormonal activation
- decrease HR
