Dobutamine

Dilution guide

Indication

Cardiogenic shock, low cardiac output state with adequate filling.

Preparation

250 mg in 50 mL D5W (5 mg/mL).

Dilution

250 mg / 50 mL → 5 mg/mL

Rate

2.5–20 mcg/kg/min; titrate to CO/perfusion.

Monitoring

  • Continuous ECG
  • BP
  • Echo / cardiac output
  • Lactate

Common errors

  • May worsen hypotension if hypovolaemic
  • Tachyarrhythmia at high doses

Pearls

  • β1 > β2 inotrope
  • Combine with noradrenaline in mixed shock
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