Inotropic therapy in the critically ill patient.
Inotropic support is an important therapeutic modality in the intensive care unit. There are three classes of agents available to the clinician: catecholamines, bipyridines, and cardiac glycosides. Each class increases inotropy by a different mechanism and each agent has distinct physiological and pharmacological actions. It is important to understand the underlying pathophysiology involved so the appropriate inotrope can be chosen on a rational basis. Prior to and during therapy invasive hemodynamic monitoring is required to ensure proper titration of the chosen agent. If an undesirable effect ensues, therapy can then be modified.
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D000676:Amrinone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002301:Cardiac Glycosides / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002316:Cardiotonic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002395:Catecholamines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016638:Critical Illness / Q000628:therapy*; D017335:Enoximone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D020105:Milrinone; D011728:Pyridones / Q000627:therapeutic use
D002301:Cardiac Glycosides; D002316:Cardiotonic Agents; D002395:Catecholamines; D011728:Pyridones; D017335:Enoximone; D020105:Milrinone; D000676:Amrinone