METHODS

Design:

randomised controlled trial (Carvedilol Or Metoprolol European Trial [COMET]).

Allocation:

{concealed}*.†

Blinding:

blinded {patients, healthcare providers, data collectors, outcome assessors, data analysts, and monitoring committee}*.†

Follow up period:

mean 58 months.

Setting:

{341 centres in 15 European countries}*.

Patients:

3029 patients (mean age 62 y, 80% men) with stable chronic HF, left ventricular ejection fraction ⩽35%, and ⩾1 cardiovascular hospital admission in the previous year, who were being treated with an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor and diuretics. Exclusion criteria included important valvular disease or ventricular …