Beta Blockers in ACS & Stable Tachycardia

Beta blockers should be considered after MONA in the ACS algorithm and after Adenosine in the stable tachycardia algorithm. Beta receptors are adrenergic, meaning that they are stimulated by hormones released by the adrenal gland – primarily epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine.  Beta receptors are located throughout the body but the receptors that we focus on for ACLS are beta 1 receptors, found in the heart.   Beta 2 affects the lungs and beta 3, smooth muscle.  Stimulation of beta 1 receptors have both a chronotropic and inotropic effect meaning that is speeds the heart up as well as making it contract more forcefully. Beta blockers in the case of ACS or STEMI helps to decrease the workload of the heart. Beta blockers slows conduction through the AV node and the transfer of potassium across cell membranes – slowing down the heart.  A Beta blocker or calcium channel blocker should be considered for patients that have a heart rate over 150 and are not responsive to Adenosine. If the patient has bradycardia, heart block, or signs of cardiogenic shock, CHF, or bronchospasms - beta blockers are contraindicated. You do not need to be familiar with specific Beta blocker medications and their doses during your ACLS class. Connect with me: https://twitter.com/PassACLS (@PassACLS) on Twitter https://www.linkedin.com/company/pass-acls-podcast/ (@Pass-ACLS-Podcast) on LinkedIn  Good luck with your class!