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Effects of propranolol and exercise training in children with severe burns

Laura J Porro1, Ahmed M Al-Mousawi, Felicia Williams

  • 1Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77550, USA.

The Journal of Pediatrics
|October 23, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Propranolol does not hinder exercise benefits in severely burned children. This beta-blocker actually enhanced aerobic capacity (VO2 peak) in pediatric burn survivors undergoing exercise rehabilitation.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric critical care
  • Rehabilitation medicine
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Severely burned children often experience muscle wasting and reduced physical function.
  • Exercise training is crucial for recovery, but its efficacy alongside medications like propranolol is unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine if propranolol administration negates exercise training benefits in severely burned children.
  • To assess the impact of propranolol on muscle strength, lean body mass, and aerobic capacity.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized trial involving 58 severely burned children (burns ≥30% total body surface area).
  • Participants underwent 12 weeks of resistance and aerobic exercise training.
  • One group received propranolol, while the control group did not.

Main Results:

  • Both groups showed significant improvements in muscle strength, lean body mass, and peak oxygen consumption (VO2 peak) post-exercise.
  • The propranolol group exhibited a significantly greater percentage increase in VO2 peak compared to controls.
  • No impairment of exercise-induced gains was observed with propranolol use.

Conclusions:

  • Propranolol does not impede exercise-induced improvements in muscle mass, strength, or VO2 peak in severely burned children.
  • Propranolol may enhance the aerobic response to exercise in this pediatric population.
Abstract

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