Isoprenaline is a synthetic derivative of noradrenaline that is not found in the body. It is also known as ISOPROTERENOL.

Isoprenalin

It is a beta1 and beta2 selective agonist that is used to treat heart block and asthma, but now replaced by salbutamol. It is administered iv, orally or intranasally depending on use.

Isoprenaline is sympathomimetric (directly acting) and is a non selective beta agonist. It has unwanted side effects including tachycardia and dysrhythmias, the plasma half life is about 2 hours.

Stimulation of beta1 receptors also leads to enhancing of phase 4 depolarisation in SA nodal cells, increasing the pacemaker potential (leading to increased frequency of contraction-chronotropy)

Administration: Intramuscular or subcutaneous injection

Warnings and Contraindications: Should not be administered to patients with myocardial ischaemia

See also

• Isoproterenol