Generic name: dopamine (injection) [ DOE-pa-meen ]
Brand name: Intropin
Drug classes: Catecholamines, Inotropic agents, Vasopressors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 18, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is dopamine?

Dopamine is a medication form of a substance that occurs naturally in the body. It works by improving the pumping strength of the heart and improves blood flow to the kidneys.

Dopamine is used to treat certain conditions that occur when you are in shock, which may be caused by heart attack, trauma, surgery, heart failure, kidney failure, and other serious medical conditions.

Dopamine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Dopamine injection side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregivers at once if you have:

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out (even while lying down);

• chest pain;

• fast, slow, or pounding heartbeats;

• shortness of breath;

• cold feeling, numbness, or blue-colored appearance in your hands or feet; or

• darkening or skin changes in your hands or feet.

Common side effects of dopamine may include:

• headache;

• feeling anxious;

• nausea, vomiting; or

• chills, goose bumps.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

In an emergency situation it may not be possible to tell your caregivers about your health conditions. Make sure any doctor caring for you afterward knows you have received dopamine.

Before taking this medicine

You should not be treated with dopamine if you have pheochromocytoma (tumor of the adrenal gland).

If possible before you receive dopamine, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• a heart rhythm disorder;

• coronary artery disease (clogged arteries);

• a blood clot;

• an allergy to any foods or drugs;

• asthma or sulfite allergy;

• metabolic acidosis;

• diabetes;

• circulation problems such as Raynaud's syndrome;

• frostbite;

• Buerger's disease; or

• if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 21 days (such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine, and others).

In an emergency situation it may not be possible to tell your caregivers if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows you have received this medicine.

How is dopamine injection given?

Dopamine is injected into a vein through an IV. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swelling around the IV needle when dopamine injection is injected.

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, kidney function, and other vital signs will be watched closely while you are receiving dopamine injection.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since dopamine injection is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Since dopamine is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid after receiving dopamine injection?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect dopamine injection?

Other drugs may interact with dopamine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

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Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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