Cardiovascular Effects of Beta-blockers in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis

In a recent study we discovered a diminished impact of acute beta-blockade on cardiac function in patients with advanced cirrhosis. These findings indicate a compromised cardiac reserve which is consistent with the concept of cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. The results support the window hypothesis suggesting that beta-blockers might exacerbate hemodynamic complications in patients with end-stage cirrhosis.