Milrinone produces pulmonary vasodilation, thereby decreasing pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR).

Study for the Vasopressors and Inotropes Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Milrinone produces pulmonary vasodilation, thereby decreasing pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR).

Explanation:
Milrinone is a phosphodiesterase-3 inhibitor, so it raises cAMP levels in both cardiac and vascular smooth muscle. In the pulmonary arteries, the increased cAMP leads to relaxation of smooth muscle by reducing intracellular calcium, resulting in pulmonary vasodilation. That vasodilation lowers the resistance the right ventricle faces, i.e., pulmonary vascular resistance. This vasodilatory effect is a key reason milrinone can be helpful in conditions with elevated PVR and right-heart strain, in addition to its inotropic benefits. However, be mindful that systemic vasodilation can occur, potentially causing hypotension.

Milrinone is a phosphodiesterase-3 inhibitor, so it raises cAMP levels in both cardiac and vascular smooth muscle. In the pulmonary arteries, the increased cAMP leads to relaxation of smooth muscle by reducing intracellular calcium, resulting in pulmonary vasodilation. That vasodilation lowers the resistance the right ventricle faces, i.e., pulmonary vascular resistance. This vasodilatory effect is a key reason milrinone can be helpful in conditions with elevated PVR and right-heart strain, in addition to its inotropic benefits. However, be mindful that systemic vasodilation can occur, potentially causing hypotension.

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