Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
phenylephrine
Pronunciation: fen-il-EF-rin
Alpha-1 adrenergic agonist used as a vasopressor to increase blood pressure without affecting heart rate.
Full Definition
Phenylephrine is a selective alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist that causes vasoconstriction without direct cardiac effects. In cardiovascular anesthesia, it is the preferred vasopressor for treating hypotension when cardiac output is adequate but systemic vascular resistance is low. Phenylephrine is particularly useful during cardiac surgery because it increases coronary perfusion pressure without increasing myocardial oxygen demand, unlike mixed alpha-beta agonists.
Usage
Usage note: Document dosage carefully as concentrations vary between bolus and infusion preparations.
In Context
- "Phenylephrine 100 mcg bolus was given for post-induction hypotension." — Anesthesia record
- "Continuous phenylephrine infusion maintained adequate coronary perfusion pressure." — Hemodynamic management note
Also known as
Neo-Synephrine
Don't confuse with
epinephrine
norepinephrine
phentolamine