Paper
Which beta blocker?
Published Apr 2, 1983 · A. Breckenridge
British Medical Journal (Clinical research ed.)
38
Citations
0
Influential Citations
Abstract
Nine beta adrenoceptor blocking drugs are currently marketed in Britain with one further compound possessing both alpha and beta adrenoceptor blocking activity. Several of these drugs are constituents of fixed dose combinations with diuretics; slow release formulations of several beta blockers are also marketed. The aim of this review is to discuss whether the differences between beta blockers are clinically important or merely represent marketing ploys used for advertising purposes by the pharmaceutical industry. A therapeutic agent is judged on two scores-efficacy and toxicity. Beta blockers pose problems because of their diverse clinical indications and the heterogeneity of their side effects. Assessment of risk versus benefit has to take account not only of the nature of the primary disease for which beta blockers are prescribed but also of any other disorders from which the patient may suffer. For example, a patient with angina may also have asthma, a patient with hypertension may have associated peripheral vascular disease, and a patient with a cardiac arrhythmia may also be on the verge of heart failure.
The differences between beta blockers are clinically important, as their diverse clinical indications and heterogeneous side effects require careful assessment of risk versus benefit.
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