Abstract
Beta-1-adrenergic blocking agents are widely used in patients with ischaemic heart disease and patients with heart failure. Anaesthesiologists are in daily contact with these drugs as they are part of medication in anaesthetised patients undergoing surgical procedures.
Long-term mortality benefit effect of these drugs has been proven. Esmolol as a representative of ultrashort-acting beta-blockers can be safely used to control septic tachycardia and promote myocardial protection in this situation.
According to published data it can be used even if a patient has concomitant catecholamine infusion. In the peri-operative period, esmolol is indicated for short time haemodynamic suppression, for example in patients undergoing pheochromocytoma resection.
In cardiac surgical patients, peri-operative infusion of esmolol led to better post-reperfusion myocardial adaptation. This article reviews the indications for esmolol with special attention to its use in septic patients.