May cause increases in arrhythmias or tachycardia. Dopamine may cause elevations in serum glucose (concentrations do not usually rise above normal limits). A few cases of peripheral cyanosis reported. Gangrene of the extremities has occurred (with high doses for prolonged periods and in patients with occlusive vascular disease receiving low doses of dopamine). Dopamine should be used with caution in ischemic heart disease. The drug is contraindicated in pheochromocytoma, and in uncorrected tachyarrhythmias or ventricular fibrillation. Use with caution in cardiovascular disease, cardiac arrhythmias, occlusive vascular disease, or post-MI. Use with extreme caution in patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (prolonged hypertension may result). Product may contain sulfites (can cause allergic-type reactions, in certain susceptible individuals). Avoid hypertension. I.V. administration must be diluted prior to use. Avoid extravasation (may result in tissue necrosis and sloughing of surrounding tissues). Avoid infusion into leg veins. Use with caution in geriatric patients (renal, hepatic, and cardiovascular dysfunction and concomitant disease or other drug therapy are common). Do not discontinue administration suddenly (may lead to marked hypotension).