Arbutamine

Arbutamine

Arbutamine is a pharmacological agent primarily used in cardiology for stress testing. It is a synthetic catecholamine that selectively stimulates beta-1 adrenergic receptors, thereby increasing heart rate, contractility, and blood pressure.

Pharmacodynamics

Arbutamine's primary mechanism of action is the stimulation of beta-1 adrenergic receptors. This stimulation leads to an increase in heart rate, myocardial contractility, and blood pressure. The drug's effects are dose-dependent, with higher doses leading to more pronounced cardiovascular effects.

Pharmacokinetics

Arbutamine is administered intravenously and has a rapid onset of action. It is metabolized in the liver by catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) and monoamine oxidase (MAO), and its metabolites are excreted in the urine.

Clinical Use

Arbutamine is primarily used in cardiology as a pharmacological stress agent for myocardial perfusion imaging. It is particularly useful in patients who are unable to exercise adequately for a traditional exercise stress test.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Arbutamine include palpitations, chest pain, and dyspnea. Less common side effects can include nausea, headache, and dizziness. Due to its cardiovascular effects, Arbutamine should be used with caution in patients with severe cardiac disease.

See Also

• Beta-1 adrenergic receptor
• Catecholamine
• Myocardial perfusion imaging

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