Atrial Fibrillation and Obstructive Lung Disease: Don ’t Fear the Beta-Blocker

Atrial fibrillation (AF) and obstructive lung disease are both growing public health problems associated with increased mortality.1, 2 Notably, patients with AF and obstructive lung disease have higher symptom burden, worse quality of life, and worse cardiovascular and bleeding outcomes.3 Heart rate control is an important component of AF management that improves symptoms and prevents tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy.4 However, older studies of beta blocker (BB) administration in patients with asthma demonstrated acute drops in expiratory volumes and concerns for acute bronchoconstriction due to beta-receptor antagonism.
Source: Heart Rhythm - Category: Cardiology Authors: Source Type: research