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β-Blockers in COPD: A Cohort Study From the TONADO Research Program
François Maltais1, Roland Buhl2, Andrea Koch3
1Centre de Recherche, Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Quebec City, QC, Canada.
Chest
|January 23, 2018
Summary
Beta-blockers are safe and effective for COPD patients with cardiovascular disease. This study found no negative impact on lung function or patient outcomes when using beta-blockers alongside COPD treatments.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is common in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Physicians often hesitate to prescribe beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents (beta-blockers) to COPD patients due to safety concerns.
- Beta-blockers are proven effective in preventing cardiovascular events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of beta-blocker use on lung function, patient-reported outcomes, and safety in COPD patients.
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of tiotropium/olodaterol in COPD patients receiving beta-blockers.
Main Methods:
- A post hoc analysis of the phase III TONADO 1 and 2 studies (5,162 patients).
- Characterized lung function, patient-reported outcomes, and safety in COPD patients with and without baseline beta-blocker treatment.
- Included patients with moderate to very severe COPD receiving long-acting bronchodilator treatment for 1 year.
Main Results:
- 11% of patients (557/5,162) received beta-blockers at baseline.
- Beta-blocker use did not negatively affect lung function (FEV1, FVC) or patient-reported outcomes (St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire, Transition Dyspnea Index).
- Safety findings were comparable between patients receiving beta-blockers and those who were not.
Conclusions:
- Beta-blocker treatment did not influence lung function, respiratory status, or safety in moderate to very severe COPD patients.
- Results support the appropriate use of beta-blockers in COPD patients with cardiovascular comorbidities.
- Cautious and appropriate use of beta-blockers is recommended for COPD patients with CVD.
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