Navigating the veins: A comprehensive review of vasoactive agent infusion via peripheral routes

Core Tip

Core Tip: Central venous catheters (CVCs) are traditionally used to transfuse vasopressors. However, their insertion is costly, time-consuming, requires expertise and may be associated with serious complications like bleeding and pneumothorax. Emerging evidence suggests that peripheral venous catheters (PVCs) can be safely and effectively used to administer vasopressors. Even though this may help with the rapid initiation of vasopressors and sometimes avoid the need for CVC insertion, the use of PVCs may also lead to minor complications from extravasation of vasopressors. By adopting a safety protocol that includes measures such as careful selection of insertion site and PVC size, limiting the dose and duration of vasopressors, and vigilant monitoring of the infusion site, complications may be further reduced. Safe use of vasopressors via PVCs may have far-reaching clinical implications for managing early septic shock, especially in resource-limited settings.