Comparing Phenylephrine and Norepinephrine in Septic Shock
Author Information
Author(s): Andrea Morelli, Christian Ertmer, Sebastian Rehberg, Matthias Lange, Alessandra Orecchioni, Amalia Laderchi, Alessandra Bachetoni, Mariadomenica D'Alessandro, Hugo Van Aken, Paolo Pietropaoli, Martin Westphal
Primary Institution: University of Rome, 'La Sapienza'
Hypothesis
Early administration of phenylephrine does not worsen hepatosplanchnic perfusion during initial hemodynamic support of patients with septic shock compared to norepinephrine.
Conclusion
Phenylephrine does not impair gastrointestinal mucosal perfusion and is less effective than norepinephrine in counteracting sepsis-related arterial hypotension.
Supporting Evidence
- Phenylephrine did not worsen hepatosplanchnic perfusion compared to norepinephrine.
- Both drugs achieved the target mean arterial pressure of 65 to 75 mmHg.
- Phenylephrine required higher dosages than norepinephrine to maintain blood pressure.
Takeaway
This study looked at two medicines used to help people with a serious infection. It found that one medicine, phenylephrine, works just as well as norepinephrine without hurting the stomach area.
Methodology
A randomized, controlled trial was conducted with 32 septic shock patients, comparing the effects of phenylephrine and norepinephrine on hemodynamics over 12 hours.
Potential Biases
Potential biases related to the small sample size and the specific patient population studied.
Limitations
The study involved a small number of patients and was limited to a short observation period of 12 hours.
Participant Demographics
Patients were adults with septic shock, mean age around 70 years, with a mix of genders.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.011
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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