From: Hemodynamic optimization of sepsis-induced tissue hypoperfusion
Drug | Dosage | Comments |
---|---|---|
Dobutamine | 1–40 μg/kg per min | Strong inotropic effect may produce vasodilation; utilized as pure inotrope agent. |
 |  | Causes tachycardia |
Dopamine | 1–20 μg/kg per min | Effects vary with dose. Predominantly vasoconstrictor with positive inotropy. |
 |  | Causes tachycardia. Effects on renal vasculature are not protective against renal failure |
Epinephrine | 1–20 μg/min | Strong inotropic, chronotropic, and vasoconstrictor. |
 |  | Concerns about ischemia and splanchnic circulation |
Norepinephrine | 0.03–1.5 μg/kg per min | Strong vasoconstrictor with modest effect on contractility. Does not produce tachycardia |
Phenylephrine | 0.5–8 μg/kg per min | Pure vasoconstrictor. No effect on contractility or heart rate |
Vasopressin | 0.01–0.04 U/min | Not recommended as first-line agent. Increases blood pressure; may cause splanchnic and cardiac ischemia |