Effect of beta-adrenergic blockade on weight changes in patients with chronic heart failure

Abstract:Background: Weight loss is common in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and is associated with adverse outcome. Activation of the sympathetic nervous system has been implicated in weight loss, wasting and cachexia. However, the effect of sympathetic antagonism on weight change in patients with CHF is not well defined. Methods:We evaluated changes in body weight, the incidence of cachexia (weight loss > 6%) and significant weight gain (>5%) in unselected patients with CHF due to left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) (LV ejection fraction (LVEF