Dopamine (Intropin)

Question 1

Therapeutic Effects of dopamine

Answer 1

Increases force and rate of cardiac contractions & dilates renal & mesenteric arteries
Causes less increase in O2 consumption by the myocardium than does isoproterenol
At low doses beta effects listed above dominate but in high doses Alpha effects will cause vasoconstriction

Question 2

Indications for dopamine

Answer 2

Increase cardiac output in cardiogenic shock while maintaining renal perfusion

Question 3

Contraindications of dopamine

Answer 3

Dont use as first line therapy in hypotension caused by hypovolemia
Pheochromocytoma
Dont give in presence of uncorrected tachyarrhythmia or VFib
Dont mix with bicarb as the dope will be inactivated

Question 4

Side Effects of dopamine

Answer 4

Ectopic beats, palpitations, tachycardia
N/V
Dyspnea, angina
Headache

Question 5

Dose of dopamine

Answer 5

5mcg/kg/min then titrate until adequate HR, BP, and LOC are achieved