Use of Nonselective Beta Blockers in Patients with Refractory Ascites

Authors

  • Warunee Mingpun Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiangmai University
  • Pitchaya Dilokpattanamongkol Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University
  • Jennis Meanwatthana Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University

Keywords:

refractory ascites, cirrhosis, propranolol, carvedilol, nadolol

Abstract

When patients with cirrhosis developed esophageal varices, risk of esophageal or gastrointestinal variceal hemorrhage was increasing and result in higher mortality. Non-selective beta-blockers (NSBBs) are the medications of choice to reduce portal blood pressure and prevent esophageal or gastrointestinal variceal hemorrhage. However, the use of NSBBs in cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites, which is a common complication, may lead to hypotension, hyponatremia, hepatorenal syndrome, or worsening ascitic manifestation. Therefore, it is crucial to properly select NSBBs in refractory ascites to prevent esophageal or gastrointestinal variceal hemorrhage with consideration in terms of efficacy and safety for patients.

Author Biographies

Warunee Mingpun, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiangmai University

Pharm.D.

Pitchaya Dilokpattanamongkol, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University

B.Sc., B.C.P., B.C.P.S., B.C.C.C.P.

Jennis Meanwatthana , Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University

B. Pharm., Pharm.D., B.C.P.S., B.C.O.P.

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Published

2022-08-31

How to Cite

1.
Mingpun W, Dilokpattanamongkol P, Meanwatthana J. Use of Nonselective Beta Blockers in Patients with Refractory Ascites. Thai J Hosp Pharm [internet]. 2022 Aug. 31 [cited 2025 Dec. 28];32(2):155-68. available from: https://he02.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/TJHP/article/view/253204

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Section

Continuing Pharmaceutical Education