[Beta blockers in heart insufficiency].

Congestive heart failure is common. Since prognosis depends on activation of neurohumoral systems, treatment with beta-blocking agents seems to be appropriate in spite of their negative inotropic effects. According to the results of the studies published hitherto, mortality was not reduced by beta blockers, but the clinical course, symptoms and hemodynamic parameters were influenced positively, particularly in patients with congestive cardiomyopathy. Further studies are necessary in order to establish specific advantages of beta-blocking agents in patients with heart failure, before they are recommended for routine therapy in medical practice.