Table 1 Inotropes and vasopressors use in cardiogenic shock

Norepinephrine

α₁₊  > Β_{1 +}

Vasoconstriction

First-line vasopressor in cardiogenic shock

Excessive vasoconstriction, immunomodulation

Dobutamine

Β₁₊

Ionotropy, moderate vasodilatation

First-line inotropic agent in cardiogenic shock

Tachycardia, hypotension (excessive vasodilatation)

Milrinone

PD-3 inhibitor

Ionotropy

Second-line inotropic agent in CS

Tachyarrhythmias, hypotension, headache

Levosimendan

Myofilament calcium sensitizer

Ionotropy and inodilator

Second-line inotropic agent in cardiogenic shock (patients under betablockers)

Hypotension, atrial and ventricular tachyarrhythmias, headache