Early intervention with a beta-blocking drug after acute myocardial infarction

Several controlled studies with long-term administration of beta blockers in postinfarction patients have demonstrated a reduction in cardiac events and mortality. During acute myocardial infarction (AMI), conventional treatment is directed mainly at such complications as pump failure and arrhythmias. Another approach attempts to influence the natural evolution of impending myocardial necrosis by interrupting the process in its reversible phase. In a double-blind trial with metoprolol in suspected or definite AMI, 1,395 patients were studied, 698 of whom received metoprolol and 697 placebo. The 3-month mortality was 36% lower in the metoprolol group (p = 0.024). A reduction in severe ventricular arrhythmias (ventricular fibrillation and tachycardia) was also seen. Chest pain was reduced and there was less need of analgesic drugs in the metoprolol group. Intervention within 12 hours resulted in a limitation of infarct size, a decreased need for furosemide and a shortened hospital stay. A significant reduction in mortality was maintained after 2 years of follow-up despite the same treatment in both groups between 3 and 24 months. Early institution of metoprolol in AMI has resulted in reduced mortality and morbidity.