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Beta Blockers 'Killing Patients'

Research uncovers dire effects of pre-surgery drug

By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff

Posted May 13, 2008 3:29 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Beta blockers routinely given to patients before surgery do far more harm than good, with patients 35% more likely to die within a month than those given a dummy pill, according to a study reported in the Lancet.  While the blood pressure drugs did cut the number of heart complications, the risk of stroke doubled, researchers discovered.

"There is a real potential that beta blockers are causing serious harm in the surgical setting," said the lead scientist. "If my mother was undergoing surgery and given a beta blocker, I would be extremely upset based on this evidence."

A new study says beta blockers given to patients prior to surgery to prevent heart complications can cause strokes and even death.
A new study says beta blockers given to patients prior to surgery to prevent heart complications can cause strokes and even death.   (KRT Photos)
Beta blockers may be doing serious harm to patients undergoing surgery, according to a new international study.
Beta blockers may be doing serious harm to patients undergoing surgery, according to a new international study.   (KRT Photos)
Beta blockers may be doing more harm than good to patients undergoing surgery, according to a new international study.
Beta blockers may be doing more harm than good to patients undergoing surgery, according to a new international study.   (Getty Images)
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surgery • heart attack • stroke • American Heart Association • atrial fibrillation • beta blockers • McMaster University • catecholamine • AstraZeneca • Toprol XL • hyptertension • metoprolol

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