dopexamine

Dopexamine is a synthetic catecholamine and structural analogue of dopamine, developed for intravenous use in hospital settings. It acts primarily as an agonist at beta 2-adrenoceptor, with additional agonist activity at dopamine receptor D1 and dopamine receptor D2, and minor activity at beta 1-adrenoceptor. Dopexamine also inhibits neuronal reuptake of norepinephrine (Uptake-1). These combined actions result in increased cardiac output, arterial vasodilation (reducing afterload), selective renal vasodilation (increasing renal perfusion), and mild positive inotropic effects on the heart. Unlike some other catecholamines, it does not stimulate alpha adrenergic receptors or cause vasoconstriction. Its main clinical uses have been for short-term management of acute heart failure, low cardiac output states following cardiac surgery, hypotension, septic shock, and to improve tissue perfusion during certain surgical procedures[2][3][6]. The drug has a rapid onset and short duration of action due to its pharmacokinetics[3].

Brand names

Dopexamine

Other names

dopexaminadopexaminum