Adrenaline
Generic Details
Generic Name
Adrenaline
Other Names
- Epinephrine
Drug Class
- Sympathomimetic
Chemical Formula
C9H13NO3
Molecular Weight
183.204 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Activates alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors, leading to vasoconstriction, increased heart rate, and bronchodilation
Indications
- Anaphylaxis
- Cardiac arrest
- Severe asthma attacks
- Allergic reactions
Common Dosage Forms
- Injection
- Auto-injector
Typical Dosage
- 0.3-0.5 mg for anaphylaxis
- 1 mg for cardiac arrest
Pediatric Dosage
- 0.01 mg/kg for anaphylaxis
- 0.01 mg/kg for cardiac arrest
Geriatric Dosage
- Consider lower doses due to increased risk of cardiovascular side effects
Side Effects
- Anxiety
- Palpitations
- Hypertension
- Tachycardia
- Pallor
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to adrenaline
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Shock from other causes than anaphylaxis
Pregnancy Category
- C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Considered compatible with breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- Beta-blockers
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
Overdose Symptoms
- Severe hypertension
- Cerebral hemorrhage
- Pulmonary edema
Antidote for Overdose
- Alpha-blockers
- Supportive care
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapid and complete after intramuscular injection
- Distribution: Widely distributed in the body
- Metabolism: Primarily hepatic
- Excretion: Mainly through urine
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease
Warnings
- Administer under medical supervision due to the potential for serious side effects