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The sympathomimetics constitute a very important group of drugs used for cardiovascular, respiratory, and other conditions. They are readily divided into subgroups on the basis of their spectrum of action (α-, β-, or dopamine-receptor affinity) or mode of action (direct or indirect).
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Adrenoceptors are classified as α, β, or dopamine receptors; these groups are further subdivided into subgroups. The distribution of these receptors is set forth in Table 9–1. Epinephrine may be considered a single prototype agonist with effects at all α- and β-receptor types. Alternatively, separate prototypes, phenylephrine (an α agonist) and isoproterenol (β) may be defined. The just-mentioned drugs have relatively little effect on dopamine receptors, but dopamine itself is a potent dopamine receptor agonist and, when given as a drug, can also activate β receptors (intermediate doses) and α receptors (larger doses).
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