isoproterenol

Disclaimer to the Online Edition

This Manual has been designed for use in the NICU at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), London, Ontario, Canada, and represents clinical practice at this institution. The information contained within the Manual may not be applicable to other centres. If users of this Manual are not familiar with a drug, it is recommended that the official monograph be consulted before it is prescribed and administered. Any user of this information is advised that the contributors, Editor and LHSC are not responsible for any errors or omissions, and / or any consequences arising from the use of the information in this Manual.

isoproterenol

Indication

  • A non-selective beta-adrenergic agonist used to increase cardiac output for cardiovascular shock, bradycardia, heart block and bradyarrhythmias

Dosage Guidelines

  • 0.05– 1 microgram/kg/min
  • Maximum dose of 2 microgram/kg/min

Administration

IV continuous infusion

  • To make 20 mL of a 20 microgram/mL solution
  1. Draw up 2 mL (0.4 mg) of isoproterenol 0.2 mg/mL injection
  2. Add 18 mL of D5W or NS to make a total volume of 20 mL

Adverse Effects

  • Cardiac arrhythmias, tachycardia, hyperglycemia
  • Decreases venous return to the heart, systemic vasodilatation, may cause hypoxemia by increasing intrapulmonary shunt

Comments

  • Tolerance may occur with prolonged use
  • Stop or slow infusion if heart rate is greater than 200 beats per minute as tachycardia may be severe enough to cause congestive heart failure
  • Monitor blood glucose periodically

Supplied As

  • 0.2mg/mL vial
  • 20 microgram/mL IV syringe prepared by Pharmacy

References

LexiComp Sick Kids, LexiComp Pediatric and Neonatal, Neofax