Controlling Hyperadrenergic Activity in Neurologic Injury
Status:
Withdrawn
Trial end date:
2014-02-14
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is frequently associated with a hyperadrenergic state
accompanied by elevated levels of plasma catecholamines. In its more severe presentation, the
hyperadrenergic state presents as dysautonomia, which is characterized by paroxysmal
alteration in vital signs, including tachycardia. The investigators hypothesize that
intravenous (IV) esmolol is as effective at controlling heart rate in hyperadrenergic states
as oral propranolol, which is the standard of care. Our primary endpoint is efficacy of IV
esmolol vs a PRN regimen of intermittent B-blockade in controlling heart rate below a
pre-specified level (< 100 bpm) after Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) or hemorrhagic neurologic
injury. Heart rates will be recorded continuously as well as hourly.