Commencement of cardioselective beta-blockers during hospitalisation for acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Background: In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and co-morbid cardiovascular disease, emerging evidence suggests a benefit in commencing cardioselective beta-blockers.

Aim: Our objective was to determine the safety of beta-blocker commencement during hospitalisation for acute exacerbation of COPD.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 1071 patients hospitalised for acute exacerbation of COPD was conducted across two tertiary hospitals over a 12-month period.