Most of the time vasoactive medications are sued to increase blood pressure (Vasconstrictors) and cardiac output (Inotropes). They include Dopamine, Norepinephrine, Epinephrine, and Phenylephrine.

 

Dopamine: low doses (1-3 ug/kg/minute) act only on dopamine receptors in kidney are intestine to increase blood flow. Medium doses (3-10 ug/kg/minute) act on Beta receptors (beta agonist) to increase cardiac contractility and cardiac output. Higher doses (10 ug/kg/minute and above) act on alpha receptors (alpha agonist) to act as a vasoconstrictor.

Dobutamine: acts on both B1 and B2 receptors. Increases cardiac output and also causes vasodilation. Good for cardiogenic shock.

Norepinephrine: alpha agonist (causes vasoconstriction) and some beta activity (increases heart contractility)

Epinephrine: also an alpha agonist and some beta agonist activity. Vasoconstriction and increased heart output/contractility.  Epinephrine causes more tachycardia than norepinephine.

 

Nitroprusside: arterial vasodilation. Can cause cyanide poisoning and acidosis

Nitroglycerin: venodilator and coronary artery dilator. Good for decreasing venous preload (decreases diastolic wall tension for better heart contraction) and allows for increased blood flow to the heart.