dopamine hydrochloride, a sympathomimetic catecholamine. Lower doses preferentially stimulate peripheral dopamine receptors to cause primarily renal mesenteric vasodilation while higher doses also stimulate beta-1 and alpha adrenergic receptors and act to increase blood pressure. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the treatment of shock, hypotension, and low cardiac output to reduce the risk of renal failure. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Pheochromocytoma, tachyarrhythmias, ventricular fibrillation, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse reactions are arrhythmias, hypotension, hypertension, and tachycardia. These adverse reactions can be potentiated if dopamine is used concurrently with other drugs such as beta-blockers, MAO inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, or cocaine.
