DOPAMINE

Classification: Adrenergic stimulator (sympathetic nervous system), inotrope, and chronotrope
Indications:
• Symptomatic hypotension (SBP 70 -100 mmHg with signs of shock)
• Refractory bradycardia (administer 5-20mcg/min)
Actions:
• Beta effects (2 – 10mcg/kg/min): Primarily increased HR & force increasing cardiac output
• Alpha effects (10 – 20mcg/kg/min): Peripheral vasoconstriction, increasing afterload
Dosage:
• 5- 20mcg/kg/min (usual cardiac starting dose 5mcg/kg/min)
• Mix 800mg/500mL D5W = 1600mcg/mL. Begin @ 5mcg/kg/min & titrate to a systolic BP of 90

Initial drip rate to infuse 5mcg/kg/min = 10% of patient’s weight in pounds
Example: 150 lb. patient: Rate = 15mL/hr, 90 lb. patient: Rate = 9mL/hr

Route:
• IV infusion only

Side effects:
• Chest pain, tachydysrhythmias, hypertension, PVC’s
• Note: Consider adding fluid volume when administering an inotropic agent if the patient may be
hypovolemic.
• Remember Starling’s law: “You need stretch of the muscle before you get squeeze”.