Beta Adrenergic Blockade for Prophylaxis Against Recurrent Myocardial Infarction and Sudden Death

Excerpt

The findings of a multicenter study in which the beta adrenergic blocking agent practolol was used for prophylaxis against recurrent myocardial infarction and sudden death in a large, randomized clinical trial were reported recently in the British Medical Journal (1). The results appear to have important implications for the management of patients after myocardial infarction. Indeed, the authors conclude that "Patients should receive longterm beta adrenoreceptor blocking treatment after anterior myocardial infarction unless specific contraindications exist . . . to be initiated between a few days and a month after the infarct" (1). No firm recommendations were made for routine