Dopamine (injection)

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

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 17, 2021. 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.

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;