Inotropic Action

Inotropic action is a physiological effect that drugs have on the heart that cause an increase in the force of heart contractions. This effect is due to an increase in the strength and frequency of heart contractions, as well as an increase in blood pressure.

Inotropic action is one of the main mechanisms of action of many drugs, such as cardiac glycosides, adrenergic and cholinergic drugs. These drugs increase the strength and frequency of heart contractions by increasing the supply of calcium ions to cardiomyocytes and increasing the rate of contraction of muscle fibers.

However, inotropic effects are not always beneficial for the heart. Too much inotropic action can overload the heart and increase blood pressure, which can cause complications such as arrhythmias, myocardial infarction and heart failure.

To control the inotropic effect of drugs, special drugs are used - inotropic antagonists. These drugs block the receptors responsible for the inotropic effect and reduce it.

Thus, inotropic action plays an important role in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, but requires careful use and monitoring to avoid unwanted side effects.