Beta-blockers associated with delayed progression of knee OA reduced the need for TKA. Results showed that the use of beta-blockers was associated with a reduced chance of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty, which could be due to a possible relationship between the autonomic nervous system and the progression of osteoarthritis.
Paul F. Lachiewicz, MD, consulting professor in the Duke Orthopaedic Surgery Department, and Rahul K. Goel, MD, offered, "Beta-blockers, such as propranolol and atenolol, are frequently prescribed by medical specialists for control of heart rate, especially associated with atrial fibrillation. These medications may have a “cardio-protective” effect in elective TKA patients.
These anti-adrenergic drugs can reduce levels of inflammatory cytokines in certain conditions. Inhibition of the adrenergic autonomic system could downregulate these cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases that contribute to cartilage degradation. Read more.