The Beta-blocker to LOwer CArdiovascular Dialysis Events (BLOCADE) Feasibility Study

Exclusion Criteria1

• Scheduled for live donor transplant within six months. 2. Experienced a cardiovascular event in the previous 3 months. Cardiovascular events include: myocardial infarction, admission for unstable angina, coronary revascularisation procedure, peripheral arterial revascularisation procedure or stroke. 3. Definite contra-indication to beta-blockers, such as: i) second or third degree atrioventricular block unless treated with a permanent pacemaker ii) sick sinus syndrome unless treated with a permanent pacemaker iii) clinically significant reversible bronchospasm iv) previous intolerance to beta-blockers v) other contra-indication 4. Currently taking a beta-blocker, verapamil, diltiazem or moxonidine and the treating nephrologist does not wish to stop these medications in order to enter the trial. 5. Considered by the treating nephrologist to be clinically or haemodynamically unstable for the study. 6. Unstable target weight (defined by a change of >2.0kg in target base weight over the preceding month). 7. Severe hepatic dysfunction (transaminases >3x higher than the upper normal limit) on the most recent liver function tests (if performed within 3 months). 8. Already involved in a clinical trial where the intervention being trialled is likely to confound the outcome of this trial. 9. Considered by the treating physician to have a life expectancy of less than 12 months. 10. Inability to provide consent or follow study instructions due to psychological illness or condition. 12. Pregnant or planning to be pregnant during the trial period.