What is a vasopressor? A vasopressor is a drug that healthcare providers use to make blood vessels constrict or become narrow in people with low blood pressure.
Options for vasopressor or inopressor include norepinephrine, epinephrine, phenylephrine, or vasopressin. Contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as a “front-line” vasopressor.
The main categories of adrenergic receptors relevant to vasopressor activity are the alpha-1, beta-1, and beta-2 adrenergic receptors, as well as the dopamine receptors [2,3].
Vasopressor #3: Phenylephrine Another lovely vasopressor. WHY do they all have to sound so similar?!? Let’s review and figure out what makes this one distinct. Phenylephrine is a PURE alpha-1 agonist, leading to peripheral vasoconstriction and increases in the mean arterial pressure (MAP).
Cardiogenic shock, typically caused by a heart attack. 4 Norepinephrine is the vasopressor most often used in this scenario. 7 Hemorrhagic shock, which is caused by massive blood loss. Using vasopressors for this type of shock is controversial and isn't routinely recommended. 8
Consider starting a low-dose vasopressor infusion (such as norepinephrine) prior to intubation so that it can easily be uptitrated if needed, rather than started from scratch
An antihypotensive, also known as a vasopressor, is an agent that raises blood pressure by constricting blood vessels, thereby increasing systemic vascular resistance.
Noradrenaline is a predominant vasopressor which causes vasoconstriction, increasing systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure. It primarily acts as an alpha-1 agonist, but it also has some beta-1 agonist activity.
The CLOVERS trial protocol explicitly permitted peripheral vasopressor initiation to facilitate early vasopressor administration, which may have increased clinician comfort with this approach.
Options for vasopressor or inopressor include norepinephrine, epinephrine, phenylephrine, or vasopressin. Contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as a “front-line” vasopressor.