isoproterenol
Pronunciation: eye-so-pro-TER-eh-nol
Synthetic beta-adrenergic agonist used to increase heart rate and treat bradyarrhythmias or heart block.
Full Definition
Isoproterenol is a synthetic catecholamine that acts as a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor agonist with potent chronotropic and inotropic effects. It increases heart rate by enhancing automaticity and conduction throughout the cardiac conduction system, making it particularly useful for treating symptomatic bradycardia, heart block, or asystole. The drug is administered intravenously and has a rapid onset of action. While effective for emergency bradycardia management, isoproterenol can precipitate ventricular arrhythmias and should be used with caution, especially in patients with underlying coronary artery disease.
Usage
Usage note: Monitor for ventricular arrhythmias; avoid in coronary artery disease when possible.
In Context
- "Isoproterenol infusion was initiated to maintain adequate heart rate while awaiting temporary pacemaker placement." — ICU progress note
- "The patient's bradycardia responded well to low-dose isoproterenol without precipitating ventricular ectopy." — Emergency department record