Sepsis and beta-blockade: a look into diastolic function

Abstract

There is growing interest on the modulation of the overwhelming sympathetic response of septic patients. Beta-blockers appear promising in this respect and, although we are at early stage, one large trial and a smaller one have demonstrated major beneficial effects. The modulation of diastolic function and the optimization of myocardial efficiency by beta-blockade is among the possible reason for the improvement in patients with severe sepsis or septic shock. It should be also considered that septic patients are at higher risk of cardiac arrhythmias and beta-blocker may have a protective effect in this regard. We are still at a preliminary stage and more research is needed it seems reasonable that beta-blockade will become an option for the treatment of septic patients over the next few years.

Keywords: :

• Beta blockade
• Myocardial dysfunction
• Septic shock
• Severe sepsis

Transparency

Declaration of funding

This editorial was not funded.

Declaration of financial/other relationships

M.A. has disclosed that she has no significant relationships with or financial interests in any commercial companies related to this study or article.