Angiotensin II in Vasodilatory Shock.

The Angiotensin II for the Treatment of Vasodilatory Shock (ATHOS-3) trial demonstrated the vasopressor effects and catecholamine-sparing properties of angiotensin II. As a result, the Food and Drug Administration has approved angiotensin II for the treatment of vasodilatory shock. This review details the goals of treatment of vasodilatory shock in addition to the history, current use, and recent research regarding the use of angiotensin II. An illustrative case of the use of angiotensin II is also incorporated for understanding the clinical utility of the drug.