Effects of Fenoldopam on Intracranial Pressure and Hemodynamic Variables at Normal and Elevated Intracranial Pressure in Anesthetized Pigs

Fenoldopam (FE), a dopamine DA1-receptor agonist, has been introduced for treatment of arterial hypertension and heart failure and for preservation of renal function. Vasodilators are generally assumed to affect all vascular beds including the cerebral circulation. We have evaluated effects of FE-induced (4 micrograms.kg-1.min-1) arterial hypotension on intracranial pressure (ICP) and intraocular pressure (IOP) under conditions of normal and increased intracranial elastance. ICP and IOP responses to hypertension were tested by infusion of angiotensin II (15 micrograms.kg-1.min-1), and the response to hypercapnia was tested by elimination and reintegration of soda lime canisters in the breat…