Levophed/ Norepinephrine

Question 1

Levophed Class

Answer 1

Sympathomimetic

Question 2

Levophed Action

Answer 2

An adrenergic receptor agonist(predominantly alpha) causing peripheral vasoconstriction and increased cardiac contractile force.

Question 3

Levophed Indications

Answer 3

• Hypovolemic shock
• Cardiogenic shock
• Septic shock
• Neurogenic shock
• undifferentiatec shock

Question 4

Levophed Contraindications

Answer 4

• Mesenteric or peripheral vascular thrombosis.
• Uncorrected Hypovolemia
• Pregnancy

Question 5

Levophed Dosage

Answer 5

Adults: 
• Initial dose- 8-12mcg/min titrated to effect. 
• Maintenance infusion- 2-4mcg/min.
Peds:
• Initial dose- 0.05-0.1mcg/kg/min.
• Max dose- 2mcg/kg/min.

Question 6

Levophed Onset/Duration

Answer 6

Onset- Immediate

Duration- 1-2min

Question 7

Levophed Side Effects

Answer 7

• Skin necrosis
• Peripheral (digital) ischemia
• Reflex Bradycardia
• Arrhythmias
• Anxiety
• HA

Question 8

Levophed Precautions

Answer 8

• Extravasations causes tissue necrosis
• Do not co-administer Bicarb- may inactivate Levophed
• Pregnancy (C)