A short note on Dopexamine

Dopexamine is basically a β2-adrenergic receptor agonist. It is considered an inotropic agent. It can be use in heart failure for afterload reduction with positive inotropicity. Beside beta2-adrenergic stimulation it also stimulates peripheral dopamine (DA1 and DA2) receptors. Also it inhibits neuronal reuptake of noradrenaline (uptake-1).

Net effect is increase cardiac output through positive inotropism and reduce afterload through increased flow to renal and mesenteric beds. It improves gastric mucosal oxygenation.

Dose is infusion at 0.5 microgram per kg per minute increasing up to 6 micrograms per kg per minute. Central line infusion is recommended. As always with similar drugs patients receiving dopexamine should be monitored with EKG, hemodynamics, urine output etc. It may cause hypotension.

Dopexamine is not approved for use currently in the US or Canada.