Use Beta-Blockers with Amiodarone If Possible

Amiodarone and beta-blockers each have been shown to reduce the incidence of sudden death in certain patient populations, share beta-blocking effects, and slow heart rate. . . .

Amiodarone and beta-blockers each have been shown to reduce the incidence of sudden death in certain patient populations, share beta-blocking effects, and slow heart rate. However, it remains uncertain whether these drugs are more beneficial or harmful when used together. Post-hoc analysis of data pooled from two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of amiodarone in patients following an MI--the European Amiodarone Myocardial Infarction Trial (EMIAT) and Canadian Amiodarone Myocardial Infarction Trial (CAMIAT)--attempted to better define the interaction of these two drugs. Of 2,687 patients in the two studies, 1,314 were receiving beta-blockers at study entry. To evaluate interactions between beta-blockers and amiodarone, out…

Reviewing Author

H Calkins