Dopamine HCL

Question 1

What is the generic name for Intropin?

Answer 1

dopamine HCL

Question 2

What is the trade name for dopamine HCL?

Answer 2

Intropin

Question 3

Classification - Intropin (dopamine HCL)

Answer 3

Adrenergic agonist (sympathomimetic), vasopressor, inotropic (dose dependent)

Question 4

How is Intropin (dopamine HCL) supplied?

Answer 4

200 mg vial, pre-mixed minibag 400 mg/250 mL NS

Question 5

Actions (Pharmacodynamics) - Intropin (dopamine HCL)

Answer 5

Vasopressor: an immediate precursor to norepinephrine, dopamine stimulates the dopaminergic, beta-adrenergic and
alpha-adrenergic receptors of the sympathetic nervous system.

Question 6

Indications - Intropin (dopamine HCL)

Answer 6

❑ Second line drug for symptomatic bradycardia (after atropine)
❑ Use for hypotension (SBP <70 – 100mmHG) with signs and symptoms of shock – correct hypovolemia with volume replacement before initiating dopamine

Question 7

Dosage - Intropin (dopamine HCL)

Answer 7

Adult: 2 – 20 mcg/kg/min IV Infusion; titrate to patient response; taper slowly; Mix:400 mg/250ml N/S [1600mcg/ml]

Pediatric: 2 – 20 mcg/kg/min IV/IO infusion; titrate to patient response

Question 8

Contraindications - Intropin (dopamine HCL)

Answer 8

❑ Uncorrected tachydysrhythmias
❑ Ventricular fibrillation
❑ Pheochromocytoma – may precipitate hypertensive crisis
❑ Allergies to sulfites

Question 9

Precautions - Intropin (dopamine HCL)

Answer 9

❑ Severe hypotension may result with abrupt withdrawal of infusion (reduce dose gradually, initiate IV fluid)
❑ MAO inhibitors (should be treated with 1/10 of the usual dose of dopamine)
❑ Do not mix with Sodium Bicarbonate
❑ Dopamine is primarily administered after norepinephrine has been started. Norepinephrine will be the first pressor you start then Dopamine. Dopamine can be the first choice in symptomatic bradycardia after atropine and/or transcutaneous pacing

Question 10

Notes - Intropin (dopamine HCL)

Answer 10

The main effects produced are very dose-dependent.

Dopaminergic receptors = low doses (0.5 – 2 mcg/kg/min); produces vasodilation in renal, mesenteric, coronary and intracerebral vascular beds.

Beta1 receptors = moderate doses (2-10 mcg/kg/min); produces cardiac stimulation (positive inotropic effects – little effect on beta2 receptors).

Alpha-receptors = high doses (10-20 mcg/kg/min); produces increased peripheral vascular resistance (PVR) and renal vasoconstriction