How should septic shock be treated?
Nov 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, the main treatments for septic shock include anti-infective therapy, fluid resuscitation, use of vasoactive medications, organ function support, and immunomodulatory therapy. Additionally, vital signs, complete blood count, liver and kidney function, and other indicators should be closely monitored during treatment, and the treatment plan should be adjusted promptly as needed. Patients are required to cooperate with healthcare providers to complete all necessary treatments.
In general, the treatment of septic shock mainly includes anti-infective therapy, fluid resuscitation, use of vasoactive drugs, organ function support, and immunomodulatory therapy. The details are as follows:
1. Anti-infective Therapy
The source of infection should be identified and removed as early as possible, along with initiation of empirical antimicrobial therapy. Medications such as Cefoperazone Sodium and Sulbactam Sodium for Injection, Imipenem and Cilastatin Sodium for Injection, or Meropenem for Injection may be used under medical guidance. Subsequent antibiotic regimens should be adjusted based on pathogen identification results to control the spread of infection.
2. Fluid Resuscitation
Rapid restoration of blood volume is key to correcting shock. Intravenous administration of crystalloid solutions such as normal saline or balanced salt solutions is performed; when necessary, colloids such as Hydroxyethyl Starch Injection may be added. This improves tissue perfusion, restores effective circulating blood volume, and corrects tissue hypoxia.
3. Use of Vasoactive Drugs
For patients whose blood pressure remains unstable after fluid resuscitation, vasoactive drugs are required to elevate blood pressure. Commonly used agents include Dopamine Hydrochloride Injection, Norepinephrine Injection, and Phenylephrine Hydrochloride Injection, which help maintain adequate blood flow to vital organs.
4. Organ Function Support
Supportive treatments are provided for impaired organs. Patients with respiratory failure require mechanical ventilation, those with renal dysfunction may undergo blood purification, and patients with coagulation disorders can receive Bothrops atrox Venom Hemocoagulase for Injection to prevent further organ damage and protect organ function.
5. Immunomodulatory Therapy
This approach enhances the body's ability to fight infection by modulating immune status. Under medical supervision, agents such as Thymosin α1 for Injection or Intravenous Human Immunoglobulin may be administered to improve immune suppression, assist in pathogen clearance, and promote recovery.
In addition, during treatment, close monitoring of vital signs, complete blood count, liver and kidney function, and other indicators is essential for timely adjustment of therapeutic strategies. Patients should cooperate fully with healthcare providers, ensure adequate nutritional intake, and provide a solid foundation for recovery.
