In a patient with known aortic regurgitation, which statement about beta blocker therapy is most accurate?

• A. It may worsen regurgitation by increasing diastolic time
• B. It reduces regurgitation by shortening diastole
• C. It cures regurgitation
• D. It has no effect on regurgitation

Answer: (A)

In aortic regurgitation, blood leaks back into the left ventricle during diastole when the aortic pressure exceeds LV pressure. The amount of regurgitation depends on how long diastole lasts and the pressure gradient between the aorta and LV. Beta blockers slow the heart rate, which lengthens diastole. That longer diastolic period allows more time for regurgitant flow to occur with each beat, potentially increasing the regurgitant volume and LV loading. They do not shorten diastole, they do not cure regurgitation, and they can meaningfully affect regurgitation by extending diastolic time.