Drug Groups

approved

Description

An adrenergic agonist that acts predominantly at alpha adrenergic receptors and also stimulates the release of norepinephrine. It has been used primarily as a vasoconstrictor in the treatment of hypotension. [PubChem]

Indication

For the treatment and prevention of hypotension due to hemorrhage, spinal anesthesia, and shock associated with brain damage

Pharmacology

Metaraminol is a potent sympathomimetic amine that increases both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Metaraminol is indicated for prevention and treatment of the acute hypotensive state occurring with spinal anesthesia. It is also indicated as adjunctive treatment of hypotension due to hemorrhage, reactions to medications, surgical complications, and shock associated with brain damage due to trauma or tumor. Metaraminol acts on both α1-adrenergic receptors but appears to have no effect on β-adrenergic receptors. It acts by increasing the force of the heart's pumping action as well as constricting peripheral blood vessels.

Toxicity

LD₅₀=240 mg/kg (rat, oral); LD₅₀=99 mg/kg (mouse, oral)

Affected Organisms

Biotransformation

Hepatic

Absorption

The effect starts 1-2 min after IV injection, 10 min after IM injection, 5-20 min after subcutaneous injection.

Protein Binding

Approximately 45%

References

External Links