Pre-discharge initiation of beta-blocker therapy in elderly patients hospitalized for acute decompensation of chronic heart failure: An effective strategy for the implementation of beta-blockade in heart failure

Luigi Tarantini, Giovanni Cioffi, Cristina Opasich, Andrea Di Lenarda, Giovanni Pulignano, Donatella Del Sindaco, Stefania De Feo, Carlo Stefenelli, Paola Russo, Giuseppe Catania

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background. Current guidelines recommend beta-blockers in patients with heart failure and left ventricular systolic dysfunction. These agents, however, are largely underused in elderly patients because of the perception of up-titration complexity and the fear of side effects. Methods. We prospectively assessed the feasibility, safety, tolerability, and 1-year outcome of the in-hospital initiation of carvedilol in elderly patients admitted for worsening heart failure. Results. Among 164 eligible subjects (age>70 years, left ventricular ejection fraction

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)441-449
Number of pages9
JournalItalian Heart Journal
Volume5
Issue number6
Publication statusPublished - Jun 2004

Keywords

  • Aging
  • Beta-blockers
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Management in cardiology
  • Prognosis

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

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