PACs vs. PVCs

  Thanks again for all you do in this forum.  It is a tremendous service.
  My question concerns the distinction between PAC's and PVCs in terms of treatment.
  Most of the discussions here have centered on the use of beta blockers to calm down PVC symptoms.  I believe that bb's work to "quiet" the heart's left ventricle.    Based upon that, would beta blockers have any effect on PAC's since these beats originate in the atrium instead?
  I am currently taking a low dose ACE inhibitor for borderline hypertension, and I was thinking of discussing with my doctor the possibility of switching to a beta blocker to kill two birds with one stone.  However, it the beta blocker isn't likely to do much, then I don't want to get into the whole side effects issue at all.
  Is my information/thinking on target?
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Dear Jay,
Thank you for your question.  Beta-blockers decrease the number of PVC's by slowing down the conduction throughout the entire heart.  Thus they also will decrease the number of PAC's as well.  If you tolerate a BB it may be a good drug for you.  Discuss your options with your doctor.
I hope you find this information useful.  Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies.  Please feel free to write back with additional questions.
If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter.  The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.