Longitudinal study of beta blocker utilization in patients with heart failure

The principal objective of this data registry is to learn more about the current patterns of treatment for heart failure, emphasizing the utilization and experiences of patients taking beta blockers in the heart failure population. The study will focus on the use, or lack of use, of beta blockers in hospitalized patients. The study will investigate how many hospitalized heart failure patients present on beta blockers, the utilization of beta blockers during and after hospitalization, and factors involved in deciding doses of beta blockers. In some patients, blood levels of hormones will be measured to help researchers better understand the risk of patients with acute heart failure. Questionnaires will also be completed to evaluate changes in overall condition. The target enrollment at Rush University Medical Center is 100 subjects.

You may be eligible to participate in this study if you:

• Are willing and able to undergo follow-up for two years after enrollment.
• Have written informed consent.
• Have a history of symptomatic heart failure defined on a clinical basis as shortness of breath or fluid retention due to cardiac causes.

This is a partial list of eligibility requirements. To inquire about your specific eligibility, please call the number provided. If you choose to inquire via e-mail, please refer to the title of the study in your e-mail.