Beta Adrenergic Blockade in the Treatment of Sustained Ventricular Tachycardia or Ventricular Fibrillation |
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| Authors: | ANS C.P. WIESFELD HARRY J.G.M. CRIJNS YPE S. TUININGA KONG I. LIE |
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| Affiliation: | Thoraxcenter, Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Groningen, The Netherlands |
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| Abstract: | The value of β-blockers as antiarrhythmic drugs in patients with sustained VT or VF has received only little attention. This article summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding the identification of patients with sustained VT or VF with the highest benefit of β-blockade. The antiarrhythmic mechanisms of β-blockade and its efficacy as single or adjuvant therapy in patients with sustained VT or VF are reviewed. Current insights into the effects of β-blockade in patients suffering from VT, in particular in the setting of heart failure, are discussed and future directions are considered. |
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| Keywords: | Beta-blockade sustained ventricular tachycardia ventricular fibrillation |
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