Emergency Vasopressors

Emergency & Critical Care

Mark this drug class

Examples

norepinephrineepinephrinephenylephrinevasopressindopamine

Prefix / Suffix: -ephrine for some catecholamines

Physiology

Shock causes poor tissue perfusion from low vascular tone, low cardiac output, or both. Vasopressors support blood pressure so vital organs receive blood flow.

Mechanism of Action

They stimulate adrenergic or vasopressin receptors to constrict vessels, increase heart contractility, or raise systemic vascular resistance.

Indications

Septic shock after fluid resuscitation
Cardiogenic shock with hypotension
Anaphylactic shock
Peri-arrest hypotension
Neurogenic shock

Side Effects / Adverse Effects

Tachyarrhythmias
Hypertension
Peripheral or organ ischemia
Extravasation tissue injury
Increased myocardial oxygen demand

Contraindications

Uncorrected severe hypovolemia when fluids are needed
Use caution with uncontrolled tachyarrhythmias
Drug-specific contraindications and allergies

Nursing Considerations

Titrate to ordered blood pressure or MAP goal using an infusion pump
Use central access when possible and monitor IV site closely if peripheral
Assess perfusion: mentation, urine output, skin, lactate trends
Do not abruptly stop high-dose vasopressors
Treat extravasation promptly per protocol, often with phentolamine for catecholamines

Ask PharmPal Nurse

Your AI tutor for Emergency Vasopressors

Ask me anything about this drug class.

Disclaimer: PharmPal Nurse is for education only and is not medical advice. Do not use it to diagnose, treat, prescribe, or make patient-care decisions; always verify with current drug references, your instructor, facility policy, and a licensed provider. In emergencies, call local emergency services.