Phenylephrine

Used for:

• Vasopressor used to treat hypotension where you don’t want to increase HR/myocardial oxygen demand (e.g., ischemic heart disease)

• Treating hypotension caused by spinal anesthesia

Mechanism:

• Stimulates alpha-1 receptors on blood vessels to cause systemic vasoconstriction

Physiological Effects:

• Increases BP: Causes systemic vasoconstriction.

• HR may decrease due to baroreceptor reflex.

Adverse Effects:

• Caution in bradycardic and hypertensive patients