Beta-blockers in patients with chronic obstructive disease and coexistent cardiac illnesses

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is prevalent condition commonly associated with cardiovascular diseases. When both are combined the prognosis of the patient worsens. One cornerstone therapy for most cardiac diseases is beta-blockade, however concerns about its potential harmful effects on airways function often restrains their use in patients with COPD and coexistent cardiac diseases. While selective beta1 adrenergic blockers seem to have a better safety profile, other non-selective beta-blockers can be securely utilized in stable COPD patients with no or little reactivity when they are indispensable and used with caution. Evidence provided by post hoc analysis of clinical trials and large observational studies suggests a beneficial effect of beta-blockers on mortality and exacerbations in mild to moderate COPD patients. Benefits are less obvious in severe COPD. Studies on the actual use of beta-blockers suggest that many cardiac patients with COPD (or vice versa) who can benefit from beta-blocker utilization do not receive such medication as it is recommended in the guidelines because of die-hard, not justified in most cases, concerns on safety.