Dopamine (Intropin) Pharmacology

These flashcards cover the essential pharmacological details of Dopamine (Intropin), including its classification, mechanism of action, indications, contraindications, dosage, side effects, and precautions.

Dopamine

A sympathomimetic drug that stimulates both alpha and beta receptors.

Classification of Dopamine

Sympathomimetic.

Mechanism of Action of Dopamine

Stimulates alpha and beta receptors; beta effects increase heart rate, contractility, stroke volume; alpha effects increase peripheral vasoconstriction.

Effects of Dopamine at 1 - 3 mcg/kg/min

Increases renal and mesenteric perfusion.

Effects of Dopamine at 3 - 10 mcg/kg/min

Mixed alpha and beta effects.

Effects of Dopamine at 10 - 20 mcg/kg/min

Primarily alpha effects.

Indications for Dopamine use

Cardiogenic shock with BP < 70 mmHg, shock states with hypotension without hypovolemia.

Contraindications for Dopamine

Untreated hypovolemia.

Adult dose range for Dopamine

2 - 20 mcg/kg/min, starting low and titrating as necessary.

Pediatric dose for Dopamine

5 - 20 mcg/kg/min IV.

Common side effects of Dopamine

Headaches, tremor, tachycardia, palpitation, angina, dyspnea, ectopic beats, nausea, and vomiting.

Precautions when administering Dopamine

Hypovolemia, VFib or tachycardias, Pheochromocytoma, do not mix with NaHCO3.