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Medication Drug Cards
MEDICATION: Norepinephrine
TRADE NAME: Levophed
GENERIC NAME: Norepinephrine
CLASSIFICATION: Vasopressor (a medication that raises blood pressure)
ACTION: This medication is used for short-term control of low blood pressure.
Stimulates alpha-receptors in arterial and venous beds and beta 1 receptors of heart,
resulting in peripheral vasoconstriction and stimulation of heart rate and contractility.
Coronary vasodilation occurs secondary to enhanced myocardial contractility.
ROUTE (IN SURGERY): IV
DOSAGE (ADULT): IV 2 to 3 mL/min of 4 mcg base/mL solution (8 to 12 mcg/min);
adjust to response. Higher concentration (up to 16 mcg/mL) may be used in fluidrestricted patients. Usual maintenance dose is 2 to 4 mcg/min, but higher doses and
prolonged therapy may be needed.
SIDE EFFECTS: (2 MOST COMMON AND 2 MOST SERIOUS):
Hypotension; increased peripheral vascular resistance; decreased carbon monoxide;
precordial pain; ventricular arrhythmias; reflex bradycardia. Gangrene (when infused into
small vein); thyroid enlargement; irritation from extravasation; decreased urinary output.
HOW IT IS USED IN SURGERY: This medication is used for short-term control of
low blood pressure.
http://www.reutershealth.com/atoz/html/Norepinephrine.htm