inotrope
A medication that alters the force of cardiac muscle contraction, either increasing (positive) or decreasing (negative) contractility.
Full Definition
Inotropes are a class of medications that modify the strength of heart muscle contractions and are fundamental to cardiac anesthesia management. Positive inotropes like dobutamine, milrinone, and epinephrine increase cardiac contractility and are used to support failing hearts during and after cardiac surgery. Negative inotropes, such as beta-blockers, decrease contractility and may be used to manage certain arrhythmias or hypertension. The choice and dosing of inotropic agents require careful consideration of the patient's hemodynamic status, underlying cardiac pathology, and surgical requirements. These agents are typically administered through central venous access due to their potency and potential for causing tissue necrosis if extravasated.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from vasopressor, which primarily affects vascular tone rather than contractility.
In Context
- "The patient required inotrope support with dobutamine at 7.5 mcg/kg/min following separation from bypass." — anesthesia record
- "Milrinone was chosen as the inotrope of choice due to its combined positive inotropic and vasodilatory effects." — clinical note