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Class
Sympathomimetic (both Alpha and Beta properties)
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Description
Naturally occurring neurotransmitter and precursor to norepinephrine.
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Actions
- • At low and medium doses, selectively dilates blood vessels supplying the brain, kidneys, heart and gastrointestinal tract.
- • At medium to high doses, increases cardiac output by increasing contractility and stroke volume, thereby increasing blood pressure.
- • At high doses, causes vasoconstriction and increased heart rate.
- • Stimulation of alpha and beta-receptors
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Indications
- To increase end-organ perfusion in:
- 1. Cardiogenic shock
- 2. Significant hypotension not caused by hypovolemia.
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Contraindications
Hypovolemia
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Side Effects
- Largely dose dependent
- 1. Tachycardia, ectopy, arrhythmias
- 2. Palpitations, chest pain
- 3. Tissue necrosis from extravasation
- 4. Gangrene from peripheral vasoconstriction
- 5. Nausea/Vomiting
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Administration
- 400 mg in 250 mL D5W (1600 μg/mL)
- Renal: 2-5 μg/kg/min
- Cardiac (Inotropic): 5-10 μg/kg/min
- Vasopressor: 10-20 μg/kg/min
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Onset/duration
<5 min, duration less then 10 min after discontinuation
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