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CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM › CARDIAC THERAPY › CARDIAC STIMULANTS EXCL. CARDIAC GLYCOSIDES › Adrenergic and dopaminergic agents
etilefrine
C01CA01
Forms & Strengths
- Tablet: 2.5 mg, 5 mg
- Oral drops: 7.5 mg/mL
- Solution for injection: 10 mg/mL
Adult Dosing
- Oral: 5 to 10 mg 3 times daily
- Oral drops: 15 to 20 drops (approx. 7.5 to 10 mg) 3 times daily
- Intramuscular or Subcutaneous: 5 to 10 mg as a single dose
- Intravenous: 2.5 to 5 mg slow injection in acute hypotensive episodes
Pediatric Dosing
- Children 2 to 6 years: 2 to 5 mg oral 3 times daily
- Children over 6 years: 5 mg oral 3 times daily
- Pediatric dosing should be adjusted based on age, weight, and clinical response
Indications
- Orthostatic hypotension and circulatory regulation disorders
- Acute and chronic hypotension of various etiologies
- Supportive management of hypotensive circulatory collapse
Mechanism of Action
- Direct stimulation of alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors
- Increases cardiac output and stroke volume via beta-1 agonist effects
- Induces vasoconstriction via alpha-1 agonist effects to increase venous return and blood pressure
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to etilefrine or sympathomimetics
- Severe hypertension and thyrotoxicosis
- Pheochromocytoma and narrow-angle glaucoma
- First trimester of pregnancy and during breastfeeding
- Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy and severe coronary artery disease
Adverse Reactions
- Palpitations, tachycardia, and cardiac arrhythmias
- Headache, dizziness, and nervousness
- Tremor and excessive sweating
- Elevated blood pressure and chest pain
Drug Interactions
- Concomitant MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants may potentiate pressor effects
- Halogenated hydrocarbon anesthetics may increase myocardial sensitivity and trigger arrhythmias
- Beta-blockers can antagonize the cardiovascular effects of etilefrine
- Oxytocic drugs may cause severe synergistic hypertension
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use