Propranolol therapy in patients with acute myocardial infarction: the Beta-Blocker Heart Attack Trial

The Beta-Blocker Heart Attack Trial was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of propranolol therapy in 3837 men and women with acute myocardial infarction. The patients began their treatment 5-21 days after hospital admission (mean 13.8 days). During an average follow-up of 25 months, there were statistically significant reductions in total mortality (26%), cardiovascular mortality (26%), arteriosclerotic heart disease (27%), sudden death (28%) and coronary incidence (definite nonfatal reinfarction plus coronary heart disease mortality) (23%). There was no group difference in incidence of congestive heart failure. Of the many potential side effects that were monitored, broncho-spasm, cold hands and feet, and fatigue occurred more frequently in the propranolol group. Propranolol not only reduced coronary mortality and morbidity, but also was administered with a great degree of safety. Based on these results, its use is recommended for at least 3 years in patients with no contraindications to beta blockade who have had a recent myocardial infarction.