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Beta-blocker use did not improve survival in patients with melanoma
Beta-blocker use had no effect on OS among patients with melanoma, according to study results.
Previous observational and preclinical studies have suggested that beta-blocker use might slow the progression of melanoma.
In the current study, researchers identified patients aged ≥18 years with cutaneous melanoma who were included in the Eindhoven Cancer Registry from Jan. 1, 1998, through Dec. 31, 2010. All patients with melanoma with Breslow thickness >1 mm who also were registered through the PHARMO record linkage system were eligible for inclusion.
The researchers identified 709 eligible patients. They were matched with a control group of randomly selected patients from the PHARMO record linkage system. Patients were matched for age and sex.
Of the 709 patients in the study group, 203 used beta-blockers after melanoma diagnosis.
Researchers determined beta-blocker use was not associated with risk for death (adjusted HR=0.82; 95% CI, 0.55-1.24).
Five-year relative survival was 80.9% among beta-blocker users compared with 83.7% among nonusers, according to researchers.
Study results also showed dosage and duration of exposure had no significant effect on survival, researchers wrote.
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.