Dopamine receptors: Applications in clinical cardiology

Abstract

The results of studies with orally effective dopamine agonists have suggested new approaches to the management of patients with cardiovascular disease. The safety and efficacy of these agents during long-term therapy remains to be established. Although the results of preliminary investigations are encouraging, only a limited number of patients have been observed for prolonged periods. Regardless of the results of these studies, future research will undoubtedly lead to the development of new dopamine agonists with greater bioavailability, different spectra of receptor activity, and fewer adverse effects. A new and exciting era of dopamine research has begun.