Betablocker (Metoprolol modified release titrated to a target dose of 200mg /day) vs placebo

Study population:

Patients ith mild to severe heart failure 

NYHA class II - IV) and LVEF </=0.40 despite optimum standard therapy. 

Comments:

Mean age of patients was 64 years.

Optimum standard therapy was defined as any combination of ACE inhibitors, Angiotensin receptor blockers and diuretics. 97% of patients were on an ACE inhibitor or Angiotensin receptor blocker.