Epinephrine

Adrenalin

What is the generic name for adrenalin?

Epinephrine 1;1,000

What is the classification of epinephrine?

Sympathomimetic agonist; hormone

What receptors does epinephrine work on?

Alpha and beta adreneric receptors

What are the main effects of epinephrine?

Increased systemic vascular resistance

Increased heart rate

Increased contractility

Increased conduction velocity

What is the mechanism of action of epinephrine

Stimulates a and b receptors

Causes vasoconstriction

Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle

Increases heart rate and contractility

Reverses histamine effects

What is the onset of epi

IV/IM 30-60 seconds,

SQ/IM 2-10 mins

Peak effects of epi

IV/IM 5 mins

SQ/IM 20 mins

Duration of epi

IV/IM 5-10 mins

SQ/IM 5-30 mins

What are the indications for epi?

Anaphylaxis

What are the contraindications for epi?

None in emergency situations

Hypovolemic shock

What precautions should be taken when using epi?

Protect from light

Do not mix with alkaline solutions

Flush IV line between incompatible drugs

Epiglotitis

What are the side effects of epi?

Palpitations

Chest pain/discomfort

Anxiety

Hypertension

Dyspnea

Headache

Nausea/vomiting

Increased myocardial oxygen demand

What is the adult dose for anaphylaxis?

0.3-0.5mg IM/SQ every 10-15 mins or 0.3 IM via EpiPen

What is the pediatric dose for anaphylaxis?

0.01 mg/kg IM (max 0.3 mg)

In what forms is epinephrine supplied?

1mg/mL ampule

Auto injector: EpiPen 0.3 mg, EpiPen JR 0.15 mg

30mg/mL multi-dose vial

What notes should be remembered when administering epi?

Monitor vitals continually

MAO inhibitors potentiate effects