You are a resident in a hospital in a very poor part of the world. Their drug selection is limited. A patient presents with acute cardiac failure, for which your preferred drug is dobutamine, given intravenously. However, there is none available. Which of the following other drugs, or combination of drugs, would be a suitable alternative?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Norepinephrine plus phentolamine. Norepinephrine is a potent vasopressor that can increase blood pressure and cardiac output in acute cardiac failure. Phentolamine is an alpha-blocker that can help counteract the vasoconstrictive effects of norepinephrine.
Rationale:
1. Norepinephrine: Increases blood pressure and cardiac output, improving perfusion to vital organs in acute cardiac failure.
2. Phentolamine: Counteracts the vasoconstrictive effects of norepinephrine, preventing excessive vasoconstriction.
Summary:
A: Dopamine at a very high dose may not be as effective as norepinephrine in acute cardiac failure.
B: Ephedrine is a less potent vasopressor compared to norepinephrine.
C: Ephedrine plus propranolol combination may lead to conflicting effects on blood pressure and heart rate