Beta-Blockers Lower Risk of COPD Exacerbations by 21%

Beta-blockers, typically used in treating stress or heart conditions, can help lower the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations, according to a recent study.

Previous research has highlighted the possible benefits of beta-blocker use in patients with COPD, but this study is the first to examine the specific benefits and further understand the link.
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To conduct their study, researchers followed 1621 patients with COPD who were participating in the Rotterdam Study until they experienced an exacerbation.

Researchers analyzed patients’ electronic health records to understand the different types of beta-blockers used and whether the patient also had heart failure.

After analyzing the data, researchers found that patients taking cardio-selective beta-blockers lowered their risk of exacerbations by 21%. Patients with heart failure lowered their risk by 55%.

“The overlap in symptoms and risk factors associated with lung and heart disease can be complicated, and we know that a reduction in lung function is also associated with a reduction in heart function,” researchers concluded. “These preliminary findings offer a useful insight into the potential benefits of beta-blockers for patients living with heart disease at the same time as COPD. If randomised controlled trials confirm our findings, we could see promising clinical implications.”

—Amanda Balbi

Reference:

Beta-blockers could reduce the risk of COPD exacerbations [press release]. Lausanne, Switzerland: European Respiratory Society; March 12, 2016. http://www.ersnet.org/news/item/5230-beta-blockers-could-reduce-the-risk-of-copd-exacerbations.html Accessed March 14, 2016.