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Dopamine administration

University of California, Davis · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Dopamine administration directly replaces or supplements dopamine, a neurotransmitter that activates dopamine receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system.

Dopamine administration directly replaces or supplements dopamine, a neurotransmitter that activates dopamine receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system. Used for Hypotension and shock (cardiogenic, septic, hypovolemic), Heart failure with reduced cardiac output, Acute kidney injury with oliguria.

At a glance

Generic nameDopamine administration
SponsorUniversity of California, Davis
Drug classCatecholamine; sympathomimetic amine
TargetDopamine receptors (D1, D2, D3, D4, D5); β-adrenergic receptors
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaCardiovascular; Critical Care
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Dopamine is a catecholamine neurotransmitter that binds to dopamine receptors (D1-D5) to modulate motor control, motivation, reward, and cardiovascular function. When administered exogenously, dopamine crosses the blood-brain barrier minimally due to its polar structure, making it primarily useful for peripheral effects on heart rate, blood pressure, and renal perfusion via D1 and β-adrenergic receptor activation.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results