Octopamine
Synonyms
4-Octopamine
Benzenemethanol, alpha-(aminomethyl)-4-hydroxy-
Norsympatol
Norsynephrine
alpha-(Aminoethyl)-4-hydroxybenzenemethanol
p-Octopamine
para-Octopamine
An alpha-adrenergic sympathomimetic amine, biosynthesized from tyramine in the CNS and platelets and also in invertebrate nervous systems. It is used to treat hypotension and as a cardiotonic. The natural D(-) form is more potent than the L(+) form in producing cardiovascular adrenergic responses. It is also a neurotransmitter in some invertebrates.