- Dobutamine is a synthetic catecholamine, and a beta-1 adrenergic receptor agonist used primarily as a cardiac stimulant.
- It increases heart rate and the force of heart contractions, thereby improving cardiac output.
- Clinically, dobutamine is commonly used in the treatment of acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock, and during cardiac stress testing when a patient cannot exercise.
Chemical Structure & Formula
- Chemical Formula: C₁₈H₂₃NO₃
- Structure:
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Mechanism of Action (Detailed)
- Selective β1 agonist → Increases cardiac contractility & heart rate.
- Minimal α1 & β2 activity, so it does not significantly affect vascular resistance.
- Increases stroke volume & cardiac output without major effects on BP.
Physiological Effects
- Cardiovascular: Increases inotropy (contractility) more than chronotropy (HR).
- Minimal vasodilation or vasoconstriction.
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Side Effects of Dobutamine
- Tachycardia & Arrhythmias
- Hypotension (in some cases, due to β2 activity)
- Tolerance develops with prolonged use.
Clinical Uses of Dobutamine
- Acute heart failure (to improve cardiac output).
- Cardiogenic shock (short-term inotropic support).
- Cardiac stress testing (used in patients who cannot exercise).
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