ICD-10 Specific code I95.8: Other hypotension

Etafedrine, a sympathomimetic agent that acts on the sympathetic receptors of the bronchial tree relaxing spasm in a manner similar to that of ephedrine, is a bronchodilator and a selective β2-adrenoreceptor agonist. Etafedrine also belongs to the family of medications called decongestants. It works by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages, helping to relieve nasal stuffiness.

Metaraminol is a potent sympathomimetic amine that increases both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, is an adrenergic receptor alpha-1 agonist. Metaraminol is indicated for prevention and treatment of the acute hypotensive state occurring with spinal anesthesia. It is also indicated as adjunctive treatment of hypotension due to hemorrhage, reactions to medications, surgical complications, and shock associated with brain damage due to trauma or tumor. Metaraminol is also used in the treatment of priapism, in spite of this application was not approved, it appears to be effective.

Noradrenaline provides a strong stimulation of alpha receptors in blood vessels at which these are counter-extracted. Noradrenaline also has an effect on beta-1 receptors in the heart leading to a positive inotropic and initially positive chronotropic effect. The increase in blood pressure may cause a reflex reduction in heart rate.

Phenylephrine is a sympathomimetic agent with mainly direct effects on adrenergic receptors. It has predominantly alpha adrenergic activity and is without stimulating effects on the central nervous system. The sympathomimetic effect of phenylephrine produces vasoconstriction which in turn relieves nasal congestion.