Phenylephrine

Phenylephrine

Mechanism of action

Used as peripheral vasopressor.

Sympathomimetic agent with predominantly alpha1-adrenergic receptor activity causing peripheral vasoconstriction and reflex bradycardia.

Indications and dose

Side-effects

Reflex bradycardia

Arrhythmias

Headache

Hypertension

Myocardial ischaemia

Reflex bradycardia

Contraindications

Pheochromocytoma

Pharmacokinetics

Onset: 1 minute

Duration: 20 minutes

Metabolism: Hepatic

Half-life of elimination: 2-3.5 hours

Directions for administration

Dilute with 5% glucose or 0.9% sodium chloride.

Can be administered via peripheral venous catheter.

Medicinal forms

1 vial = 10 mg in 1 ml

References

  1. https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/phenylephrine-hydrochloride/#indications-and-dose 
  2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phenylephrine 
  3. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/4176/smpc#gref 
  4. https://litfl.com/phenylephrine/