- for short term management of of CHF if patient to respond to
Digitalis,
Diuretics, and vasodilators; - used for patients w/ severe CHF refractory to diuretics, vasodilators, and conventional inotropic agents. - potent inotropes and vasodilators; - amrinone & milrinone decr systemic, pulmonary, & coronary vascular resistance; - this effect can lead to decreases mean arterial pressure, esp in hypovolemic pt; - can be used to reduce afterload, but in many situations vasoconstrictors must be used to prevent vascular collapse; - Adult Dose: - initially give IV bolus of 0.75 mg/kg over 2-3min. followed by maintainace dose of 5-10ug/kg/min; - may repeat bolus dose 30min after maintainance infusion if needed; - not to exceed 10mg/kg/day; - Misc: - incompatible with dextrose containing solutions; monitor for fluid and electrolyte changes and renal function during Rx;
