Vasopressors 

Vasopressors are medicines that constrict (narrow) blood vessels, increasing blood pressure. They are used in the treatment of extremely low blood pressure, especially in critically ill patients.

Vasopressors are a powerful class of drugs that induce vasoconstriction and thereby elevate mean arterial pressure(MAP). Vasopressors differ from inotropes, which increase cardiac contractility; however, many drugs have both vasopressor and inotropic effects.

First‐line treatment for the manifestation of circulatory failure usually consists of administration of intravenous fluids. If fluid treatment does not restore circulatory function, vasopressors such as norepinephrine, dopamine, epinephrine and vasopressin are recommended.

Vasopressors help you raise your blood pressure when it’s so low that you can’t get enough blood to your organs. This is the case with shock victims and people with other conditions that make their blood pressure very low. Providers often give vasopressor drugs to you through an IV.

Inotropes help your heart squeeze easier. Milrinone, Epinephrine, and Dobutamineare three common inotropic medicines your care team might prescribe. These medicines are given continuously through your IV.