Abstract
Cirrhosis is a leading cause of death in the United States and worldwide. Beta-blockers have been established in numerous studies as part of the cornerstone of the medical management of cirrhosis, particularly in the primary and secondary prevention of variceal hemorrhage. However, new evidence has cautioned the use of beta-blockers in patients with end-stage cirrhosis and refractory ascites. In this article, we review the beneficial effects of beta-blocker therapy, the potential harms of aggressive beta-blocker therapy, and provide suggestions regarding the appropriate use of this class of medications in patients with cirrhosis.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 643-653 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Journal of Hepatology |
Volume | 60 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Mar 2014 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Ascites
- Beta blockers
- Cirrhosis
- Portal hypertension
- Variceal hemorrhage
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Hepatology