Review: cardioselective beta-blockers do not produce adverse respiratory effects in COPD.

M e t h o d s Data sources: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE/ Excerpta Medica, CINAHL, respiratory journals, meeting abstracts, and relevant references (up to May 2005). Study selection and assessment: Randomized, blinded, controlled trials (RCTs) in any language that evaluated cardioselective β-blockers as a single dose or for an extended period in patients with COPD and reported change in FEV1 or respiratory symptoms. Administration of β2-agonists, either intravenously or by inhalation, after cardioselective β-blockers or placebo, was also studied. Study quality was assessed for randomization and blinding. Outcomes: Change in FEV1, FEV1 response to β2-agonists, and respiratory symptoms (wheezing, dyspnea, or COPD exacerbation).