Mechanism of action
Used as a vasopressor.
- direct alpha and beta adrenergic receptor agonist
- alpha >> beta
- alpha effects:
— increased SVR -> increased afterload; increased DBP and coronary perfusion pressure
— increased venoconstriction -> increased venous return -> increased preload - beta effects:
— inotropy and chronotropy
Indications and dose
Side-effects
Arrhythmias
Headache
Hypertension
Skin tissue necrosis at injection site
Myocardial ischaemia
Pharmacokinetics
Onset: 1-2 minutes
Duration: 5-10 minutes
Metabolism: Hepatic, renal and serum enzymes (MAO, COMT)
Half-life of elimination: 2 minutes
Excretion: Urine metabolites
Directions for administration
For continuous infusion, use 5% glucose via central line.
Medicinal forms
1 vial = 1 mg in 1 ml
References
