Beta-blockers

Researchers from Imperial College London and University College London have found that “high levels of antibodies – molecules produced by the immune system – are linked to a low risk of heart problems,” even in people who have other risk factors. The team has developed a new test that looks for levels of protective immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies, which appear to guard against a heart attack even when a patient has hypertension and high cholesterol.

If you or someone you love has a major surgery planned and they are taking one of the many ‘beta blockers’ often prescribed to those who have high blood pressure, you’ll want to know about the additional risk of these pharmaceutical drugs.