A sympathomimetic agent with mainly indirect effects on adrenergic receptors. It is used to maintain blood pressure in hypotensive states, for example, following spinal anesthesia. Although the central stimulant effects of mephentermine are much less than those of amphetamine, its use may lead to amphetamine-type dependence. (From Martindale, The Extra Pharmacopoeia, 30th ed, p1248) (en)
Mephentermine is an alpha adrenergic receptor agonist, but also acts indirectly by releasing endogenous norepinephrine. Cardiac output and systolic and diastolic pressures are usually increased. A change in heart rate is variable, depending on the degree of vagal tone. Sometimes the net vascular effect may be vasodilation. Large doses may depress the myocardium or produce central nervous system (CNS) effects. (en)