Beta-blockers and children

  Are beta-blockers safe for a 9 year old with Marfan Syndrome?
  I know they're widely used by adults, but I've heard conflicting
  viewpoints recently.  I've haven't been able to locate it yet, but
  a nurse told me of an article by Dr. Moodie from the Cleveland
  Clinic where he doesn't always like use them for children.  I'd like
  to get a copy of the article and read it for myself and get other
  opinions from the medical community about the subject.  Thanks!  

[CCF Cardio MD-SGM]

Dear Barry,
Beta blockers are commonly used, even for children, for the treatment of Marfan's syndrome-especially in the setting of dilation and aneurysm of the ascending aorta.  It is believed that this therapy will retard the progression of aortic dilation, thus delaying any future surgery to repair the aneurysm.  As with any medications, there are side effects with beta blockers.   These potential side effects are broad and numerous, however, the great majority of patients experience few or no side effects from beta blocker therapy. Also, I am not aware of any evidence that children are more prone to side effects from beta blockers than are adults.  
Dr. Moodie discusses the issue of therapy of Marfan's syndrome, as well as treatment with beta blockers in the following article: (I will provide a highlighted link to the web page, but if it doesn't work, I include the reference below).
Clin Pediatr (Phila)  1997  Aug;  36(8):489
AAP:  Health supervision for children with Marfan syndrome;  Moodie, DS
If you are not familiar with using medical libraries, please show this reference to a medical librarian, who will help you locate the article.
Finally, feel free to call 1 800 CCF CARE to make an appointment with Dr. Moodie at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.  Ask for Pediatric Cardiology scheduling.  Best of luck.  Information in the Heart Forum is for general purposes.  Specific diagnoses and treatment can only be prescribed by your physician.