Hemodynamic Response to Angiotensin-II When Used as the Second Vasopressor Agent for Septic Shock

Norepinephrine is a catecholamine that is the first-line vasopressor for septic shock. The addition of non-catecholamine vasopressors, including vasopressin and angiotensin-II may be used in adults with septic shock that have inadequate mean arterial pressure while on norepinephrine. Uncertainty exists regarding the timing of initiation of these agents and there is a lack of data comparing their safety and efficacy. The current literature suggests that earlier initiation of angiotensin-II will have a more significant reduction on norepinephrine-equivalent dose compared to later initiation. In addition, approximately half of patients initiated on vasopressin do not have an early hemodynamic response 6 hours after initiation. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of angiotensin-II when used as the second vasopressor agent for septic shock.