Which class includes agents such as Aramine and Levophed used to raise blood pressure in shock?

Which class includes agents such as Aramine and Levophed used to raise blood pressure in shock?

• A. Vasopressor
• B. Anxiolytic
• C. Antibiotic
• D. Vasodilator

Answer: (A)

Raising blood pressure in shock is achieved with drugs that act as vasopressors: they constrict blood vessels and increase systemic vascular resistance, which raises mean arterial pressure and improves organ perfusion. Agents like Aramine (metaraminol) and Levophed (norepinephrine) are classic vasopressors used in hypotensive emergencies. Their primary action is on vascular smooth muscle via alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, causing vasoconstriction; norepinephrine also provides some beta-1–mediated cardiac support, but the main purpose is restoring vascular tone to elevate BP. Anxiolytics reduce anxiety and don’t raise BP; antibiotics treat infections; vasodilators widen vessels and lower BP, which would worsen shock rather than correct it.

Raising blood pressure in shock is achieved with drugs that act as vasopressors: they constrict blood vessels and increase systemic vascular resistance, which raises mean arterial pressure and improves organ perfusion. Agents like Aramine (metaraminol) and Levophed (norepinephrine) are classic vasopressors used in hypotensive emergencies. Their primary action is on vascular smooth muscle via alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, causing vasoconstriction; norepinephrine also provides some beta-1–mediated cardiac support, but the main purpose is restoring vascular tone to elevate BP. Anxiolytics reduce anxiety and don’t raise BP; antibiotics treat infections; vasodilators widen vessels and lower BP, which would worsen shock rather than correct it.