What is a noted effect of dopamine at low doses?

At low doses, dopamine primarily acts on dopaminergic receptors, particularly the D1 receptors found in the renal vasculature. This stimulation leads to vasodilation and increased renal blood flow, enhancing renal perfusion. This effect is beneficial in clinical scenarios where maintaining kidney function is critical, such as in cases of cardiogenic shock or acute renal failure. The increase in renal perfusion can help prevent or mitigate acute tubular necrosis by ensuring adequate blood supply to the kidneys.

In contrast to low doses, higher doses of dopamine lead to increased beta-adrenergic activity, which can enhance heart rate and contractility, and even higher doses can result in vasoconstriction due to alpha-adrenergic receptor stimulation. Therefore, while dopamine has multiple effects at varying doses, the noted effect at low doses specifically revolves around its action to increase renal perfusion.