A recent study has raised concerns about the use of beta-blockers, common drugs prescribed to treat heart attacks, in women. Beta-blockers are designed to slow the heart rate, reduce the force of heart contractions, and lower blood pressure. They are often given to patients after a heart attack to prevent future attacks and treat conditions like hypertension, arrhythmias, angina, heart failure, and migraines.
The study, published in the European Heart Journal and based on the REBOOT clinical trial, analyzed over 8,000 men and women treated for heart attacks at 109 hospitals in Spain and Italy over nearly four years. Researchers found that women who had minor heart damage and were treated with beta-blockers after a heart attack faced higher risks. They were more likely to suffer another heart attack and had a higher risk of hospitalisation for heart failure. Alarmingly, women on beta-blockers were nearly three times more likely to die compared to those not given the drug.
Dr Valentin Fuster, senior author and president of Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital in New York City, said the findings could change international guidelines and highlight the need for sex-specific approaches in heart treatment. Lead author Dr Borja Ibanez added that the risks were especially high for women receiving higher doses of beta-blockers.
The study focused on women with a normal left ventricular ejection fraction above 50 percent. Beta-blockers can have side effects such as low blood pressure, slow heart rate, fatigue, mood swings, and erectile dysfunction in men. Dr Andrew Freeman, cardiovascular specialist in Denver, explained that women’s hearts are generally smaller, making them more sensitive to these medications. He also noted that most early heart research focused on men, so women’s responses were not studied adequately.
While beta-blockers can help reduce heart workload and prevent future attacks, this study shows that their effects can differ significantly between men and women. Experts now suggest that doctors carefully weigh the risks and benefits before prescribing these drugs to women, especially after a heart attack.
This research underscores the importance of personalized treatment for heart disease and the need to consider gender differences in medication response. Women may require alternative approaches to ensure safety and effective recovery after a heart attack.
