Phentolamine is primarily used as an antidote for extravasation of which medication class?

Phentolamine is primarily used as an antidote for the extravasation of vasopressors. Vasopressors, such as norepinephrine and epinephrine, are medications that constrict blood vessels to increase blood pressure. When these drugs extravasate, they can cause significant tissue damage due to their vasoconstrictive properties, leading to ischemia and necrosis.

Phentolamine is an alpha-adrenergic antagonist that can help to counteract the effects of the vasoconstriction caused by extravasated vasopressors. By blocking alpha-adrenergic receptors, phentolamine facilitates vasodilation and improves blood flow to the affected area, thus minimizing tissue injury and promoting healing.

Understanding the role of phentolamine in this context highlights its importance in managing extravasation incidents involving vasopressors, distinguishing it from other drug classes where the use of this particular antidote would not apply.