Tag: Negative inotrope

Metoprolol is one of the most widely prescribed beta-blockers globally, used to treat conditions like hypertension and angina. While its primary role is well-known, a key pharmacological question often arises: Is metoprolol an inotrope? The answer lies in its ability to decrease the heart's force of contraction, making it a negative inotropic agent.

According to extensive clinical research, lidocaine is generally well tolerated hemodynamically at therapeutic doses, but high, toxic concentrations can significantly depress cardiac output. Understanding the delicate balance between therapeutic efficacy and potential harm is crucial for clinicians prescribing this medication, as the answer to the question, "Does lidocaine affect cardiac output?" hinges entirely on dosage and patient health status.