Beta blocker as a treatment option for heart failure with atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) are two diseases with similar clinical phenotypes. The classification of HF is the most important factor for determining the best treatment strategy. Because each subgroup shows different clinical symptoms. These are preserved ejection fraction (> 50 %, HFpEF), mid-range decreased EF (40 % – 49 %, HFmrEF), and reduced EF (< 40 %, HFrEF). Beta-blockers constitute an essential component of our pharmacological treatment plan for chronic HF. Beta-blocker therapy is recommended in patients with HF with low ejection fraction in stable sinus rhythm, because it improves symptoms and leads to a better long-term result. Therapeutic functions of beta-blocker in patients with preserved ejection fraction (EF) is yet unknown. Because till now it fails to improve in reduction of morbidity and mortality rate. The presence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in HF patients rises as the disease progresses, and it is linked to a greater risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, irrespective of EF and concurrent AF, the use of beta-blockers in HF patients raises significant questions. There are lots of conflicting research and publications regarding the use and benefit of beta-blocker in patients. Few researches show that beta-blockers have a reduced positive impact in HF patients with AF. In this review, we have discussed the role of beta-blocker as a treatment option for patients who have heart failure with atrial fibrillation.