Final answer:
Vasopressors increase mean arterial pressure by causing vasoconstriction and enhancing cardiac output. Dopamine, norepinephrine, and phenylephrine are commonly used medications for this purpose.
Step-by-step explanation:
Vasopressors work by increasing mean arterial pressure through vasoconstriction of arterioles and constriction of veins. This increases vascular resistance and venous return to the heart, resulting in an elevation of blood pressure. Sympathetic stimulation also plays a role by releasing epinephrine and norepinephrine, which further enhance cardiac output and vasoconstriction. Some common medications used as vasopressors in clinical practice include dopamine, norepinephrine, and phenylephrine.