Inotropes and Vasopressors

Excerpt

Inotropes and vasopressors are essential pharmacological agents used to treat shock, a condition characterized by reduced perfusion to vital organs, leading to multiorgan dysfunction and potentially death. Vasopressors function by inducing vasoconstriction, thereby increasing systemic vascular resistance (SVR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and organ blood flow. Inotropes enhance cardiac contractility and improve cardiac output (CO), which supports the maintenance of MAP and perfusion. These agents are vital for restoring hemodynamic stability in critically ill patients.