Phenylephrine impairs host defence mechanisms to infection: a combined laboratory study in mice and translational human study.

Background: Immunosuppression after surgery is associated with postoperative complications, mediated in part by catecholamines that exert anti-inflammatory effects via the β-adrenergic receptor. Phenylephrine, generally regarded as a selective α-adrenergic agonist, is frequently used to treat perioperative hypotension. However, phenylephrine may impair host defence through β-adrenergic affinity.

Norepinephrine Dysregulates the Immune Response and Compromises Host Defense during Sepsis.

Sepsis is characterized by a dysregulated immune response to infection. Norepinephrine, the cornerstone vasopressor used in septic shock, may contribute to immune dysregulation and impact host defense. To investigate effects of norepinephrine and the alternative vasopressor vasopressin on the immune response and host defense.