inotróp

An inotrope is a substance that alters the force or strength of muscle contractions. The term is most commonly used in medicine to refer to drugs that change the contractility of the heart muscle. Positive inotropes increase the force of contraction, while negative inotropes decrease it.

Positive inotropic agents are primarily used to treat conditions where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, such as heart failure or cardiogenic shock. By strengthening the heart's contractions, these drugs help to improve cardiac output, which is the amount of blood the heart pumps per minute. This can lead to better circulation, reduced fluid buildup in the lungs and body, and improved symptoms for patients. Examples of positive inotropes include digoxin, dobutamine, and milrinone.

Negative inotropic agents, on the other hand, reduce the force of heart contractions. They are less commonly used and are typically employed in specific situations where excessive cardiac contractility is detrimental. For instance, they might be used to reduce the heart's workload in certain types of severe heart failure or to control rapid heart rhythms. Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers can exhibit negative inotropic effects.

The use of inotropic agents requires careful medical supervision due to their potential side effects and interactions with other medications. The decision to administer an inotrope, and which type to use, depends on the individual patient's condition, the underlying cause of their cardiac issues, and their overall health status.