Beta-blockade With Landiolol in Out-of-hospital Cardiac Arrest

Beta-blockade With Landiolol in Out-of-hospital Cardiac Arrest: a Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Pilot Trial

This study investigates the efficacy of landiolol versus placebo in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and refractory ventricular fibrillation (electrical storm).

The use of beta-blockers in OHCA patients with refractory VF could potentially reverse the unwanted beta-1-mediated effects of endogenous and exogenous epinephrine (proarrhythmic effect), which could in turn lead to a shorter time until return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).

This is a prospective, double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled pilot trial. The investigators consider this a pilot trial, as this is the first prospective trial evaluating the use of beta-blockade in cardiac arrest.

Inclusion Criteria:

• OHCA , >/=18 years of age
• 3 or more shockable rhythms (VF or pVT) and last rhythm shockable

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age > 85a
• Severe head trauma or acute active bleeding
• Known allergy or insensitivity to landiolol or another beta-blocker