A tale of ChatGPT: narrative review of literature on the role of betablockers in septic shock using artificial intelligence

ChatGPT allows the quick redaction of articles, abstract automatic writing, and the exploration of new creative approaches on diverse topics. Numerous students and practicians include the use of this AI tool to fuel debates on therapeutic strategies. While being invited to write a review article on the use of beta-blockers in septic shock for the journal "Anesthesie & Reanimation", we used ChatGPT to gather documentation on the theme. Within the limits of the choice we made to recourse to AI, the answers provided formed a satisfying framework, although lacking and shallow. The theoretical interest of beta-blockers, through the sole control of the cardiac frequency, is detailed. However, this is mitigated by the intervention and opinion of an international expert. The analysis is superficial and circular, neither displaying an actual progress in the knowledge of the underlying mechanisms nor a pertinent bibliographic analysis. The most recent data, not used by ChatGPT, thanks to our methodology, entails being cautious with the use of beta-blockers for septic shock outside of the scope of clinical research. A better characterisation of the patients who could potentially benefit from this therapeutic approach remains necessary.