Table 7

Dobutamine

IndicationDecreased cardiac function, hypotension, hypoxaemia
Dose2–25 mcg/kg/min (doses 10>mcg/kg/min likely to have chronotropic effect)
PrecautionsArrythmias, tachycardia
ContraindicationsNormal cardiac function
Class of recommendationClass IIa—weight of evidence/opinion is in favour of usefulness/efficacy, should be considered
Level of evidenceC—consensus of opinion of the experts and/or small studies, retrospective studies, registries