Classification of Inotropes and Vasoconstrictors.



Classification of inotropes by mechanism of action:

classification of inotropes



Another classification:
  • inotropes are agents that increase myocardial contractility (inotropy)
    — e.g. adrenaline, dobutamine, isoprenaline, ephedrine
  • vasopressors are agents that cause vasoconstriction leading to increased systemic and/or pulmonary vascular resistance (SVR, PVR)
    — e.g. noradrenaline, vasopressin, metaraminol, vasopressin, methylene blue

  • inodilators are agents with inotropic effects that also cause vasodilation leading to decreased systemic and/or pulmonary vascular resistance (SVR, PVR)
    — e.g. milrinone, levosimendan
  • some agents don’t fit these categories easily!
    — e.g. dopamine


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