[Adrenergic beta inhibitors in heart insufficiency: which and when?]

After briefly reviewing the alterations of sympathetic nervous system in congestive heart failure and the possible ways of its pharmacological management, we review the present data regarding the use of blocking drugs in major trials (USCP, CIBIS and MERIT-HF). beta blocking drugs have a top and unquestionable role in the therapy of congestive heart failure; we conclude with a few practical rules about their use in this syndrome.