Dopamine

Question 1

Drug Class

Answer 1

Sympathomimetic drug that acts on alpha and beta adrengic receptors.

Question 2

Action

Answer 2

Chemically related to epinephrine and norepinephrine. Mainly act on Alpha 1 and Beta 1 adrenergic receptors in a dose dependent fashion. 
Low dose (renal) acts on dopaminergic receptors, causing renal, mesenteric, and cerebral vascular dilation. 
Medium dose (cardiac) stimulates beta adrenergic receptors, causing increased myocardial contraction, increased cardiac output, and increased BP. 
High dose ( vasopressor) causes alpha adrenergic effect, producing peripheral arterial and venous constriction.
Dopamine is mainly used in the treatment of hypotension associated with cardiogenic shock.

Question 3

Onset and Duration

Answer 3

Onset = 2-4 minutes
Duration = 10-15 minutes

Question 4

Indications

Answer 4

Hypotension (correct hypovolemia first prior to use in patients with hypotension). Bradycardia. CHF with shock.

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

Tachydysrhythmias
V-fib
Hypertension

Question 6

Side effects

Answer 6

Tachydysrhythmias
Hypertension
Nausea and vomiting
Acute MI
V-tach
V-fib

Question 7

Adult Dose

Answer 7

Low dose (renal) : 2-5 mcg/kg/min
Medium dose (cardiac): 5-10 mcg/kg/min
High dose (vasopressor): 10-20 mcg/kg/min

Question 8

Pediatric dose

Answer 8

2-20mcg/kg//min titrate to the desired patient. response.

Question 9

Special Considerations

Answer 9

Pregnancy class C (no studies in women. drug should only be given if benefit justifies risk to fetus). 
Monitor patient for signs of compromised circulation.

Question 10

Supplied

Answer 10

400 mg (40 mg/ml) - 10 ml Single dose vial.