A Clinical Update on Vasoactive Medication in the Management of Cardiogenic Shock

• Authors: Aditi Shankar, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital; Gayathri Gurumurthy, Emory University; Lakshmi Sridharan, Emory University; Divya Gupta, Emory University; William Nicholson, Emory University; Wissam Jaber, Emory University; Saraschandra Vallabhajosyula, Emory University
• Journal Title: Clinical Medicine Insights : Cardiology
• Volume: Volume 16
• Publisher: Libertas Academica | 2022-02-07
• Type of Work: Article | Final Publisher PDF
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1177/11795468221075064
• Subjects: Health Sciences, Medicine and Surgery; Chemistry, Pharmaceutical
• Keywords: Cardiogenic shock; acute myocardial infarction; vasopressors; inotropes; mechanical circulatory support

Abstract

This is a focused review looking at the pharmacological support in cardiogenic shock. There are a plethora of data evaluating vasopressors and inotropes in septic shock, but the data are limited for cardiogenic shock. This review article describes in detail the pathophysiology of cardiogenic shock, the mechanism of action of different vasopressors and inotropes emphasizing their indications and potential side effects. This review article incorporates the currently used specific risk-prediction models in cardiogenic shock as well as integrates data from many trials on the use of vasopressors and inotropes. Lastly, this review seeks to discuss the future direction for vasoactive medications in cardiogenic shock.