A randomised controlled trial investigating the effects of dopexamine on gastrointestinal function and organ dysfunction in the critically ill.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether an infusion of dopexamine for up to 7 days has an effect on gastrointestinal (GIT) absorption and permeability, renal function or organ dysfunction in the critically ill.


METHODS
Prospective, randomised controlled clinical trial in two general adult intensive care units.


METHODS
102 critically ill adult patients predicted to require organ support for at least 4 days.


METHODS
After resuscitation patients were randomly assigned to receive an infusion of up to 2 mcg/kg/min [corrected] per minute of dopexamine or control.


RESULTS
GIT absorption and permeability were measured using the ratio of absorbed rhamnose to 3- O-methyl- D-glucose and the ratio of lactulose to rhamnose on days 1, 4 and 7. Creatinine clearance was measured concurrently. Daily Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores were calculated. Fifty-two patients received dopexamine. No significant difference between the two groups emerged on any of the measured parameters during the study period.


CONCLUSIONS
No benefit was seen from a prolonged infusion of dopexamine in this group of critically ill patients in terms of GIT absorption and permeability, creatinine clearance or organ dysfunction.
Heart Lung Unit, Torbay Hospital, Torquay TQ2 7AA, UK.
Catherine J
CJ
Ralph
Suzie J
SJ
Tanser
Peter D
PD
Macnaughton
David G
DG
Sinclair
D003404:Creatinine / Q000652:urine; D016638:Critical Illness; D004064:Digestive System / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000503:physiopathology; D004298:Dopamine / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D007408:Intestinal Absorption; D007668:Kidney / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000503:physiopathology; D008875:Middle Aged; D010539:Permeability; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D006113:United Kingdom
C046318:dopexamine; D003404:Creatinine; D004298:Dopamine