inotrope
Pronunciation: EYE-noh-trohp
Medication that affects the force of heart muscle contraction, used to support cardiac function in critically ill children.
Full Definition
Inotropes are a class of medications that alter myocardial contractility and are frequently used in pediatric critical care to support cardiovascular function. Positive inotropes like dobutamine, epinephrine, and milrinone increase cardiac contractility and are used in conditions such as cardiogenic shock, heart failure, and post-cardiac surgery. Negative inotropes decrease contractility but are less commonly used in pediatric practice. The choice of inotrope depends on the specific hemodynamic goals, underlying pathophysiology, and patient's clinical condition. Pediatric dosing is typically weight-based and requires careful titration with continuous hemodynamic monitoring including heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac output assessment.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from vasopressors which primarily affect vascular tone rather than cardiac contractility.
In Context
- "The post-operative patient required inotrope support with dobutamine for low cardiac output syndrome." — ICU progress note
- "Inotrope weaning proceeded gradually as the child's cardiac function improved." — Treatment plan