Editing Inotrope (section)

==Medical uses==

Both positive and negative inotropes are used in the management of various cardiovascular conditions. The choice of agent depends largely on specific pharmacological effects of individual agents with respect to the condition. One of the most important factors affecting inotropic state is the level of [[calcium]] in the [[cytoplasm]] of the muscle cell. Positive inotropes usually increase this level, while negative inotropes decrease it. However, not all positive and negative drugs affect calcium release, and, among those that do, the mechanism for manipulating the calcium level can differ from drug to drug.

While it is often recommended that [[vasopressors]] are given through a [[Central venous line|central line]] due to the risk of local tissue injury if the medication enters the local tissues, they are likely safe when given for less than two hours through good peripheral [[intravenous therapy|intravenous catheterization]].<ref>{{cite journal | vauthors = Loubani OM, Green RS | title = A systematic review of extravasation and local tissue injury from administration of vasopressors through peripheral intravenous catheters and central venous catheters | journal = Journal of Critical Care | volume = 30 | issue = 3 | pages = 653.e9–653.17 | date = June 2015 | pmid = 25669592 | doi = 10.1016/j.jcrc.2015.01.014 }}</ref>