milrinone

Full Definition

Milrinone is a phosphodiesterase-3 inhibitor that increases cardiac contractility (positive inotropy) while simultaneously causing vasodilation. Unlike catecholamine inotropes, milrinone works by increasing intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels. It is particularly useful in cardiovascular anesthesia for patients with heart failure or those difficult to wean from cardiopulmonary bypass, as it improves cardiac output without significantly increasing myocardial oxygen consumption.

Usage

Usage note: Note the loading dose requirement and typical infusion rates in documentation.

In Context

• "Milrinone infusion at 0.5 mcg/kg/min was initiated for low cardiac output syndrome." — ICU medication order
• "The patient required milrinone loading dose prior to separation from bypass." — Anesthesia record