inotrope
Pronunciation: EYE-no-trope
A medication that affects the force of cardiac muscle contraction, either increasing (positive) or decreasing (negative) contractility.
Full Definition
Inotropes are pharmacological agents that modulate myocardial contractility and are frequently used in cardiac surgery perioperative care. Positive inotropes like dobutamine, milrinone, and epinephrine increase contractile force and are used to treat low cardiac output states. Negative inotropes such as beta-blockers reduce contractility and may be used to manage hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or diastolic dysfunction. The choice of inotrope depends on the specific hemodynamic goals, underlying cardiac pathology, and desired effects on heart rate and vascular tone. Careful monitoring is required as these agents can cause arrhythmias and affect afterload.
Usage
Usage note: Specify positive or negative when context requires clarification; distinguish from vasopressors.
In Context
- "The patient required inotrope support with dobutamine for low cardiac output syndrome." — ICU management note
- "Weaning from inotropes proceeded gradually as native cardiac function improved." — Post-operative progress note