cafedrine

Cafedrine is a synthetic cardiac stimulant and antihypotensive agent used to increase blood pressure in people with hypotension. It is a chemical linkage of norephedrine (a sympathomimetic amine) and theophylline (a non-selective phosphodiesterase inhibitor). Cafedrine acts primarily by stimulating Beta-1 adrenoceptor in the heart to increase cardiac output (positive inotropic effect), an action that can be blocked by β-adrenoceptor antagonists. Additionally, its theophylline component may contribute to phosphodiesterase inhibition and increased cAMP levels in cardiomyocytes. Cafedrine is metabolized mainly to norephedrine and excreted via the kidneys. It has been widely used—often as a fixed combination with theodrenaline (Akrinor)—for treating acute hypotension during anesthesia or emergency situations[1][3][5][7].

Brand names

AkrinorBifortPraxinor

Other names

norephedrino-ethyltheophylline7-(2-(β-Hydroxy-α-methylphen-ethylamino)ethyl)theophylline