True or False: Beta blockers decrease myocardial oxygen demand by increasing the heart rate and decreasing cardiac contraction.

Beta blockers are known for their role in managing conditions like angina by decreasing myocardial oxygen demand. The statement claims that beta blockers increase heart rate, which is incorrect. In actuality, beta blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, leading to a reduction in heart rate, contractility, and overall myocardial workload. By lowering heart rate and decreasing the force of cardiac contraction, beta blockers effectively reduce the oxygen demand of the heart muscle. This mechanism is beneficial for patients with angina, as it helps alleviate symptoms by ensuring that the heart does not require more oxygen than can be supplied by the coronary circulation. Therefore, the statement is false.