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Comparative Analysis of Beta-Blockers Versus Calcium Channel Blockers in the Management of Chronic Stable Angina

Abdur Rehman1, Tassawwar Iqbal2, Saeeda Shahid3

  • 1Cardiology, Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Lahore, PAK.

Cureus
|June 10, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Beta-blockers are more effective than calcium channel blockers for managing chronic stable angina. This study found beta-blockers improved heart rate control, reduced angina episodes, and enhanced exercise tolerance in patients.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Chronic stable angina is a prevalent condition linked to coronary artery disease, impacting patient quality of life.
  • Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers are standard treatments for symptom management, but comparative effectiveness requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the efficacy of beta-blockers versus calcium channel blockers in managing chronic stable angina.
  • Key endpoints included symptom control, exercise capacity, and overall clinical outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • A comparative observational study involving 260 patients with chronic stable angina.
  • Data collected from June 2025 to December 2025 at the Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Lahore, Pakistan.

Main Results:

  • Beta-blockers showed superior heart rate control (68.2 bpm vs 74.6 bpm) and a higher achievement rate (70.8% vs 41.5%).
  • Patients on beta-blockers experienced fewer angina episodes, reduced nitrate use, and improved exercise tolerance (6.8 METs vs 6.1 METs).
  • Beta-blockers led to greater overall symptom improvement, fewer hospital visits, and higher patient satisfaction.

Conclusions:

  • Beta-blockers offer superior outcomes in symptom control and functional capacity enhancement for chronic stable angina patients.
  • Findings support the use of beta-blockers as a primary therapeutic option in this patient population.
Abstract

Keywords:
beta-blockerscalcium channel blockerschronic stable anginacoronary artery diseaseexercise tolerancenitrate use

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