Do beta blockers prevent heart rhythm problems?
Class II antiarrhythmics, beta blockers, are the only heart rhythm medications used to prevent heart rhythm problems from occurring in the first place. In people who have had a heart attack, beta blockers reduce the risk of dying, having another heart attack, or experiencing sudden cardiac death.10-14 The risk of dying is reduced by 25% to 40%, and sudden cardiac death specifically is lowered by 30% to 45%.11-14 This survival benefit continues for up to 6 years after the heart attack.10 It is not fully understood how beta blockers prevent heart rhythm problems: they may have a direct antiarrhythmic effect, or their ability to widen arteries and increase blood flow to the heart may indirectly lower the risk of certain heart rhythm disturbances, particularly ventricular tachyarrhythmia (a rapid irregular heart beat originating in the lower chambers of the heart). You may be given beta blockers shortly after heart attack symptoms begin. These medications should not be used in some patient
