Dobutamine is a medication primarily used to treat heart failure and improve heart function. It works by stimulating the heart's beta-1 adrenergic receptors, which increases the strength of heart contractions and helps the heart pump more blood. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with weakened hearts. Typically administered through an intravenous (IV) line in a hospital setting, Dobutamine is often used in emergency situations or during diagnostic tests like a stress echocardiogram. While it can be effective, it may also cause side effects such as increased heart rate or blood pressure, requiring careful monitoring by healthcare professionals.