What does "Vasopressors" mean?
Table of Contents
Vasopressors are medicines used to help increase blood pressure in people who are critically ill. When a person's blood pressure drops too low, these drugs can help to tighten blood vessels and raise blood pressure, which is important for ensuring that organs and tissues receive enough blood and oxygen.
How They Work
Vasopressors work by acting on the blood vessels. They make the muscles in the walls of the blood vessels squeeze tighter. This narrowing of the blood vessels increases the pressure of the blood flowing through them, helping to restore a normal blood pressure level.
When They Are Used
Doctors usually use vasopressors in emergency situations, such as severe infections, shock, or after major surgery. They are typically given through an intravenous (IV) line, which can either be a small needle in the arm (peripheral intravenous catheter) or a larger line placed in a central vein in the chest (central venous catheter).
Safety Considerations
There are concerns about using vasopressors with a small IV line, as the medication can cause damage to surrounding tissues if it leaks. This is why many doctors prefer to use larger central lines. However, recent studies suggest that using small IV lines may be safe in some cases, which could be beneficial in hospitals where larger lines are not practical.
Conclusion
Vasopressors play a critical role in treating patients with very low blood pressure. Ongoing research is looking to understand the best ways to administer these medications safely and effectively for different patient groups.