Dr.BelleHeart —Cardiologist on Instagram: "What are inotropes? Inotropes are medications that we use to help the heart squeeze better when it is weak! Dobutamine Function: Strong ↑ contractility (β1), mild ↓ afterload (β2) → often increases cardiac output Use case: Low-output heart failure/cardiogenic shock with adequate BP (can drop BP) Watch-outs: Tachycardia, arrhythmias Milrinone Function: ↑ contractility + vasodilation (“inodilator”) → ↓ afterload, can drop BP Use case: HF with pulmonary HT