Biswajit Sutradhar1, S. B. Chakrabarti2
ABSTRACT: Dopamine is an ionotropic agent used to treat hypotension, shock & usually kept in emergency kit. Accidental administration of dopamine is very rare as it is used by health professionals but it can occur as in this case. A 42 years female patient of ASA I with fibroid uterus was posted for total abdominal hysterectomy. During premedication accidentally IV dopamine was administered to her. Immediately the patient suffered from restlessness, palpitation, chest tightness, tachycardia, hypertension, excessive salivation, nausea & vomiting. The drug error was immediately detected. The patient was successfully managed with Inj furosemide, Inj esmolol, Inj glycopyrrolate, Inj ondansetron, I V fluid & 100% oxygen in the OT. Spo2, HR, NIBP, ECG & urine output were monitored. The case was followed up, surgery deferred but performed later on successfully. Dopamine toxicity among the chronic users is common but inadvertent dopamine injection is very rare. Acute dopamine toxicity needs emergency care. Phentolamine an α blocker, is the antidote to dopamine but in the absence of phentolamine, aggressive diuresis with furosemide & maintenance of hemodynamic stability with appropriate agents can save the life of patient.
