Beta-adrenergic blockade and calcium channel blockade in myocardial infarction.

Because of their hemodynamic and antiarrhythmic actions, beta-adrenergic blockers and calcium-entry blockers have been suggested for use in patients with myocardial infarction (MI) for reducing infarct size, preventing ventricular ectopy, and for prolonging life in survivors of acute MI. Experimental studies have suggested their usefulness in these areas. Clinical studies have demonstrated a role for beta-blockers in the hyperacute phase of MI, and in longterm treatment of infarct survivors. Calcium channel blockers appear to have somewhat less utility in patients with Q wave MIs, but may have an important role in therapy of the non-Q wave infarct.