Mechanism of action
- levo: alpha 1 agonist -> vasoconstriction + beta 2 effects -> inotropy
- dextro: beta 1 and beta 2 agonist + alpha 1 blocking effects
-> inotropy with limited vasodilation
Indications and dose
Side-effects
Arrhythmias - mainly supraventricular tachycardias
Myocardial ischaemia
Headache
Tachycardia
Hypertension
Angina pectoris
Bronchospasm
Nausea
Skin reactions
Pharmacokinetics
Onset: 1-2 minutes
Duration: 10-12 minutes
Bioavailability: N/A
Metabolism: Hepatic, COMT
Half-life of elimination: 2-3 minutes
Excretion: Urine
Directions for administration
Dilute in 250 ml of 5% glucose or 0.9% sodium chloride.
Administer via central line.
Medicinal forms
1 vial = 250 mg in 50 ml (5 mg in 1 ml)
References
