Intravenous inotropic agents in the intensive therapy unit: do they really make a difference?

Eur J Heart Fail. 2000 Mar;2(1):7-11. doi: 10.1016/s1388-9842(99)00061-6.

Abstract

Part of the management of refractory heart failure is treatment aimed at preventing organ damage due to inadequate oxygen delivery, improving hemodynamics, and maximizing cardiac output while maintaining only mildly elevated ventricular filling pressures The aim of this paper is to review the most updated indications on intravenous inotropic agents, and to compare their cardiac and peripheral effects. Finally, clinical implications of their use (alone or in combination) are reviewed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic beta-Agonists / administration & dosage
  • Adrenergic beta-Agonists / therapeutic use
  • Cardiotonic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Cardiotonic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Critical Care*
  • Dobutamine / administration & dosage
  • Dobutamine / therapeutic use
  • Heart Failure / drug therapy*
  • Heart Failure / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Infusions, Intravenous
  • Intensive Care Units
  • Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors / administration & dosage
  • Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Adrenergic beta-Agonists
  • Cardiotonic Agents
  • Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
  • Dobutamine