Which medication is commonly used to treat hypotension in horses?

Dobutamine is commonly used to treat hypotension in horses because it acts as a synthetic catecholamine that primarily stimulates beta-1 adrenergic receptors. This stimulation increases myocardial contractility and heart rate, effectively raising cardiac output. In cases of cardiovascular collapse or shock, enhancing the heart's pumping ability is crucial in helping to restore adequate blood pressure and tissue perfusion. Additionally, dobutamine has a relatively mild effect on blood pressure, making it safer for use in certain situations compared to other medications that may cause a more significant increase in blood pressure.

Other options might have different primary uses or effects. For example, atropine is primarily used as an anticholinergic for bradycardia, dopamine can be used in higher doses to increase blood pressure but is not the first-line agent for treating hypotension in horses, and epinephrine is usually employed in emergency situations for severe asthmatic bronchospasms or anaphylaxis rather than straightforward hypotension scenarios. Thus, dobutamine stands out as the most appropriate choice for effectively managing hypotension in horses.