title: IV inotropic agents: dopamine, dobutamine, and amrinone.
abstract: Three commonly used IV inotropic agents--dopamine, dobutamine, and amrinone--have been discussed in this article. Knowledge of their common mechanisms of action, individual actions, dosages, methods of preparation, precautions, and side effects can only help critical care nurses maintain or improve the quality of care given to patients receiving these medications.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Budny
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Anderson-Drevs
mesh_terms: D000676:Amrinone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002303:Cardiac Output, Low / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing; D003422:Critical Care; D004280:Dobutamine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004298:Dopamine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous
chemical_list: D004280:Dobutamine; D000676:Amrinone; D004298:Dopamine