Pharmacoeconomics: Open Access

Cost−effectiveness of Landiolol, an Ultra−short−acting Betablocker, for Treatment of Sepsis Related Tachyarrhythmia in Germany

Abstract

Günther Krumpl1 and Evelyn Walter2*

Sepsis and septic-shock are associated with cardiovascular problems, including tachyarrhythmia, myocardial injury, and changes in vascular endothelial function that might affect cardiac output with potential fatal outcome. The consequences of sepsis extend well beyond the acute illness. Tachycardia and new-onset atrial-fibrillation (AF), often treated with less effective agents such as amiodarone, are key prognostic factors for sepsis and associated with increased use of health-care resources and costs. Early decrease of heart-rate is associated with improved outcome. The use of β-blockers for managing acute arrhythmias in patients with septic-shock has been described in the literature. Landiolol, an ultra-short-acting β1-selective adrenergic-receptor-antagonist, is used specifically for the acute management of atrial-fibrillation and atrial-flutter in critically ill patients with/without cardiac-dysfunction.