See the DrugPatentWatch profile for dopamine
The trade name for dopamine is Intropin [1]. Dopamine is a naturally occurring catecholamine that acts as a neurotransmitter and hormone. It plays a role in the "fight or flight" response, as well as in reward, motivation, and motor control [2].
When is dopamine used medically?
Dopamine is administered intravenously to treat conditions characterized by low blood pressure, such as shock [3]. It is also used to manage bradycardia, a slower than normal heart rate [4].
How does dopamine work in the body?
Dopamine functions by binding to specific receptors in the brain and body. These receptors trigger various effects depending on their location. For instance, dopamine in the brain influences movement, pleasure, and motivation, while dopamine in the peripheral nervous system can affect heart rate and blood pressure [2].
What are the side effects of dopamine?
Common side effects of dopamine administration can include irregular heartbeat, elevated blood pressure, and anxiety [1]. More serious side effects may involve severe arrhythmias or tissue damage if the medication leaks from the vein [3].
What are alternative treatments for low blood pressure?
Other medications used to treat low blood pressure include norepinephrine and epinephrine, which also affect blood pressure and heart rate [4]. For certain types of bradycardia, atropine may be used [4].
What is the difference between dopamine and other catecholamines?
While dopamine is a catecholamine, other related substances like norepinephrine and epinephrine are also catecholamines with overlapping but distinct physiological roles. Norepinephrine primarily constricts blood vessels, raising blood pressure, and also increases heart rate. Epinephrine has broader effects, including increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels, and is also a key hormone in the stress response [2].
Where can I find information on drug patents?
Information regarding drug patents, including patent expiry dates and exclusivity periods, can be found on DrugPatentWatch.com [5].
Sources
1. Intropin: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Warnings. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/mtm/intropin.html
2. Dopamine - Wikipedia. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dopamine
3. Dopamine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Interactions, Warnings. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/7602/dopamine-intravenous/details
4. Catecholamines: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007247.htm
5. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/