About epinephrine
Adrenergic agonist; vasopressor
Used for
- Treating cardiac arrest
- Treating severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
- Treating dangerously low blood pressure during anesthesia
Usual adult dose
Cardiac arrest: 1 mg IV/IO every 3–5 minutes. Anaphylaxis: 0.5 mg intramuscularly, repeat after 5 minutes if needed.
Usual dose in children
Cardiac arrest: 0.01 mg/kg IV/IO every 3–5 minutes (maximum 1 mg per dose). Anaphylaxis: 0.01 mg/kg intramuscularly (maximum 0.5 mg per dose).
Common side effects
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Shakiness, anxiety, or headache
- Paleness, sweating, or nausea
- Raised blood pressure
Important warnings
- Emergency medicine; route and dose depend on the condition and formulation.
- Intravenous use requires monitoring by trained clinicians.
- May cause dangerous heart rhythm changes or high blood pressure.
- Use cautiously with heart disease, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes.
Pregnancy
May be used for life-threatening emergencies, including anaphylaxis; prompt treatment is important.
Breastfeeding
Emergency treatment should not be delayed; information on effects during breastfeeding is limited.
Interactions
- Beta-blockers may increase blood pressure effects or reduce response.
- Tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors may intensify effects.
- Other stimulants or thyroid hormones may increase heart effects.
- Some anesthetics can increase the risk of abnormal heart rhythms.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.