Non-selective beta-blockers enhance resolution of induced infections in animals and healthcare-associated infections in humans

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) pose significant risks, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and costs, exacerbated by multi-drug-resistant microorganisms. This study aimed to evaluate pharmacological prophylaxis targeting sympathetic reflex control of immunity to mitigate systemic infections, offering a novel approach to combating HAIs. The study included animal experiments and a retrospective analysis of orthopedic surgery patients in Romagna, Italy. Young female pigs were intravenously inoculated with Escherichia coli (E. coli) and divided into two groups: propranolol-treated (non-selective β-blocker; 3 mg/kg; 3x/day orally) and vehicle-treated, starting two days before infection. Parameters such as bacteraemia, serum cytokines, biochemical profile, blood count, lactate, glycemia, and flow cytometry were assessed. Additionally, a retrospective analysis of 92,649 orthopedic surgery hospitalizations (2017–2022) examined the association of non-selective and selective β1-blockers with HAI development using conditional logistic regression. Propranolol-treated pigs exhibited a disinhibited immune response to systemic infection, clearing circulating bacteria much earlier than vehicle-treated animals. The retrospective analysis showed that patients on non-selective beta-blockers had a 71.7% reduced risk of developing HAIs, while those on selective β1-blockers had an 18% higher risk. These findings suggest that targeting sympathetic reflex control of immunity via pharmacological prophylaxis may reduce HAIs in surgical patients.