Vasopressor

A drug that raises blood pressure by constricting blood vessels, increasing the heart’s pumping force, or both. Vasopressors are used when low blood pressure threatens blood flow to vital organs.

Adrenergic receptor: A cell-surface receptor activated by adrenaline and related signaling molecules. Many vasopressors raise pressure by activating alpha or beta adrenergic receptors.
Septic shock: A life-threatening form of sepsis marked by circulatory failure and dangerously low blood pressure. Vasopressors support arterial pressure when fluids alone do not restore circulation.
Blood pressure: The force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of blood vessels. Vasopressors are used to raise this measured pressure when it is dangerously low.
Organ perfusion: The delivery of blood through an organ’s tissue, supplying oxygen and nutrients. The aim is to preserve adequate perfusion, not simply to maximize a pressure reading.
Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor: An adrenergic receptor whose activation contracts vascular smooth muscle. Its activation narrows arteries and increases systemic vascular resistance.
Norepinephrine: A catecholamine neurotransmitter and medication that stimulates alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors. It is commonly used as the first-line vasopressor for septic shock.
Hypotension: Blood pressure that is abnormally low for a person or clinical situation. It is the immediate problem vasopressor therapy is intended to address.
Digital ischemia: Inadequate blood flow to the fingers or toes that can damage tissue. Intense peripheral vasoconstriction can reduce blood flow to the extremities.
Vasopressin receptor: A receptor for vasopressin, a hormone that regulates water balance and vascular tone. Vasopressin-based drugs constrict vessels through V1 receptors, independently of adrenergic pathways.
Epinephrine: A hormone and medication that activates alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors. It can support pressure in shock and is also used in cardiac arrest and anaphylaxis.

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