Beta blockade in the post-myocardial infarction setting: pharmacologic rationale and clinical evidence.

The use of beta blockers reduces the risk of arrhythmias, reinfarction, and heart failure in both the immediate and long-term periods after a myocardial infarction. Every patient should be prescribed a beta blocker after a myocardial infarction unless there is a strong contraindication to therapy. Despite compelling evidence and recommendations, beta blockers remain an underutilized therapy in the post-myocardial infarction period. Evidence-based recommendations for the choice of agent and the practical implementation of beta blockers are reviewed.