[Analysis of the appropriate use of -blockers post-infarction]

Abstract

Introduction: The use of ss-blockers in patients with acute myocardial infarction has shown to improve the survival and reduce the risk of a new reinfarction.

Aim: To quantify the use of ss-blockers in patients with acute myocardial infarction in Galicia, Spain.

Methods: We used the database of the RIGA study (Registry of Infarctions in Galicia) including 655 consecutive patients admitted to any hospital of Galicia for acute myocardial infarction from February to July, 1995. An extensive review of the literature was previously made to establish therapeutic criteria for the use of ss-blockers in patients with acute myocardial infarction. The survey of the RIGA database was compared with the criteria established to determine the definition of appropriate usage.

Results: 210 out of 655 patients (32%) received ss-blockers. Interestingly, treatment (or lack of treatment) with ss-blockers was deemed appropriated in 51.4% of the patients. This inadequacy was related to the use of ACE inhibitors, calcium antagonists and thrombolysis.

Conclusion: The use of ss-blockers in Galicia in patients admitted with acute myocardial infarction was markedly lower than that established by standard criteria and the use of ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers and thrombolysis was related to less appropriate use.