NCIt definition : A monoamine compound with positive inotropic activity. Dopamine is a naturally occurring
catecholamine formed by decarboxylation of dehydroxyphenylalanine and a precursor
of norepinephrine and epinephrine. Dopamine binds to alpha-1 and beta-1 adrenergic
receptors. Mediated through myocardial beta-1 adrenergic receptors, dopamine increase
heart rate and force, thereby increasing cardiac output. Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor
stimulation on vascular smooth muscle, leads to vasoconstriction and results in an
increase in systemic vascular resistance. Stimulation of dopaminergic receptors in
renal vasculature, leads to renal blood vessel dilation, and an increase in glomerular
filtration rate, renal blood flow, sodium excretion, and urine output.;