Discontinuing heart failure medications heightens death risk

A new study from Karolinska Institutet shows that patients with improved heart function still face higher risks of heart-related death or hospitalization if they stop taking heart failure medications. This finding emphasizes the importance of continuing treatment even after symptoms improve. The research analyzed over 8,700 heart failure patients. Those who discontinued medications like RASi, ARNi, or MRA had a 36 to 38 percent higher risk of adverse outcomes within a year. Stopping beta-blockers increased risks only in patients with moderate improvements. The study suggests that heart failure medications remain beneficial despite improvements in heart function. Researchers plan further studies to refine treatment guidelines and explore when it may be safe to discontinue certain medications.