I95.81
Treat the cause of hypotension.
Ensure appropriate fluids are given to correct hypovolaemia.
The medicines given below all require significant dilution before administration.
- Adrenergic and dopaminergic agents, e.g.:
- Ephedrine IV, 3–5 mg as a single dose and then further boluses as required to a maximum of 30 mg.
- Increases heart rate and contractility, and vasoconstrictor.
- Repeated administration can result in tolerance and tachyphylaxis.
- Alternative vasopressor infusion (e.g. adrenaline (epinephrine)) may be needed to mitigate unresponsiveness to treatment.
OR
- Phenylephrine IV, 50–100 mcg as a single dose and then infuse at 60–180 mcg/minute.
- Vasoconstrictor.
- High doses may cause significant reflex. bradycardia: treat this by discontinuing the phenylephrine only.