vasopressor
Pronunciation: VAY-so-press-or
A medication that causes vasoconstriction to increase blood pressure and vascular resistance.
Full Definition
Vasopressors are medications that cause arterial and venous constriction, primarily used to increase blood pressure in hypotensive states. Common vasopressors include norepinephrine, epinephrine, phenylephrine, and vasopressin, each with different receptor affinities and hemodynamic effects. They are frequently used in cardiogenic shock, septic shock, or during anesthesia to maintain adequate organ perfusion pressure. Vasopressors work primarily through alpha-adrenergic stimulation and should be distinguished from inotropes, which primarily affect cardiac contractility.
Usage
Usage note: Specify agent, dose, and hemodynamic goals when documenting vasopressor therapy.
In Context
- "High-dose vasopressor support was required to maintain mean arterial pressure above 65 mmHg." — intensive care unit note
- "Vasopressor weaning was initiated as the patient's hemodynamics stabilized." — critical care progress note