β-Blockers and calcium channel blockers are commonly used drugs in the treatment of atrial fibrillation with tachycardia. However, in patients with high myocardial susceptibility and vulnerability, combination therapy with β-blockers and non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (verapamil or diltiazem) but also individual administration can cause drug-induced cardiogenic shock. Thus, the simultaneous administration of β-blockers and non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers is absolutely contraindicated. In case of acute heart failure, isolated application is also contraindicated. In the treatment of a cardiogenic shock induced by β-blockers and/or non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, administration of intravenous calcium, glucagon or high-dose insulin is recommended.
Keywords: Beta-blockers, adrenergic; Calcium channel blockers; Cardiac dysrhythmia; Glucagon; Tachycardia.