Research highlights the need to consider mental health impacts when prescribing beta-blockers to MI patients with preserved heart function. Study: Short- and long-term effects of beta-blockers on symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with myocardial infarction and preserved left ventricular function: a pre-specified quality of life sub-study from the REDUCE-AMI trial . Image Credit: Shidlovski/Shutterstock.
com In a recent study published in the European Heart Journal. Acute Cardiovascular Care , a group of researchers assessed the effects of beta-blockers on anxiety and depression symptoms in myocardial infarction (MI) (heart attack) patients with preserved left ventricular function. Background Beta-blockers have long been integral in preventing adverse outcomes following MI, initially proven effective in studies conducted before the widespread use of modern interventions like percutaneous coronary intervention and antithrombotic therapy.
They work by reducing myocardial oxygen demand and preventing cardiac remodeling and arrhythmias, yet they also have notable side effects, including bradycardia, hypotension, fatigue, exercise intolerance, and possible impacts on mental well-being, such as depression and anxiety. Recent trials have yielded mixed findings on beta-blockers cardiovascular benefits in MI patients with preserved left ventricular function, highlighting a need for further research on their psychological effects. About the study The Randomized Evaluation of.