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In vitro antimicrobial activity of commonly used vasoactive drugs

Ozgun Cuvas Apan1, Teoman Zafer Apan2, Alparslan Apan1

  • 1Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Giresun University Medical Faculty, Giresun, Turkey.

Journal of Clinical Anesthesia
|October 1, 2016
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Vasoactive drugs like adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine show antimicrobial properties. Higher concentrations of these drugs effectively inhibit microbial growth, suggesting their use in preventing contamination.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Clinical Pharmacy
  • Intensive Care Medicine

Background:

  • Microbial contamination of infused drugs poses a significant risk in intensive care units.
  • Vasoactive drugs are commonly used in critical care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of commonly used vasoactive drugs.
  • To determine the impact of different concentrations on microbial growth inhibition.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective study was conducted in a clinical microbiology laboratory.
  • The antimicrobial properties of adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine were tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans.
  • Microbial growth was assessed in saline dilutions of these drugs at various concentrations, with pH measurements also performed.

Main Results:

  • Saline dilutions of adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine demonstrated antimicrobial effects against all tested microorganisms.
  • Higher concentrations of these vasoactive drugs exhibited a more significant inhibitory effect on microbial growth compared to lower doses.
  • Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Candida albicans were more susceptible, while Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed greater resistance.

Conclusions:

  • The study suggests that more concentrated dilutions of adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine can limit microbial growth.
  • Utilizing higher concentrations of these vasoactive drugs may be advisable to mitigate contamination risks in clinical practice.
Keywords:
Antimicrobial activitiesCatecholamineDrug contaminationInfusion

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