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Dobutrex

Generic name: dobutaminedoe-BUE-ta-meen ]
Drug classes: Cardiac stressing agents, Catecholamines, Inotropic agents, Vasopressors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 14, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Dobutrex?

Dobutrex stimulates heart muscle and improves blood flow by helping the heart pump better.

Dobutrex is used short-term to treat cardiac decompensation due to weakened heart muscle.

Dobutrex is usually given after other heart medicines have been tried without success.

Dobutrex may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Dobutrex side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregiver right away if you have:

Common side effects of Dobutrex may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be watched closely while you are receiving Dobutrex.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Dobutrex if you are allergic to it.

To make sure Dobutrex is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

FDA pregnancy category B. Dobutrex is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether dobutamine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is Dobutrex given?

Dobutrex is injected into a vein through a catheter. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

You will receive Dobutrex in a hospital or clinic setting to quickly treat any serious side effects that occur.

While using Dobutrex, you may need frequent medical tests. Your heart function may need to be checked using an electrocardiograph or ECG (sometimes called an EKG).

What happens if I miss a dose?

If you are using the medicine at home, call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose of Dobutrex.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using Dobutrex?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect Dobutrex?

Other drugs may interact with dobutamine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.