The safety of perioperative esmolol: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Summary: Doctors often use beta-blockers to protect the heart during surgery, but these drugs can sometimes lower blood pressure too much, leading to other complications. This review analyzed 67 studies on Esmolol, a short-acting beta-blocker, used during non-heart surgeries. The findings show that while Esmolol significantly reduces heart stress (ischemia) without dangerously slowing the heart rate, it does increase the risk of low blood pressure. However, the study concludes that when doctors carefully adjust the dose (titration) based on the patient's immediate needs, Esmolol can be used safely and effectively.