Adrenaline
Generic Name
Adrenaline (Epinephrine) 1 mg Injection
Manufacturer
Various Pharmaceutical Companies
Country
Global
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| adrenaline 1 mg injection | ৳ 25.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Adrenaline (epinephrine) is a potent vasoconstrictor and bronchodilator, primarily used in life-threatening emergencies such as anaphylaxis, cardiac arrest, and severe asthma attacks. It rapidly increases heart rate, constricts blood vessels, and relaxes bronchial smooth muscle.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Anaphylaxis: 0.3-0.5 mg IM/SC. Cardiac arrest: 1 mg IV every 3-5 minutes. Severe asthma: 0.3-0.5 mg SC/IM.
Elderly
Use with caution; lower initial doses may be considered due to increased sensitivity to adrenergic effects and potential underlying cardiovascular disease.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is generally required for renal impairment due to rapid metabolism and short half-life, but monitoring is advisable.
How to Take
Administered intramuscularly, subcutaneously, intravenously, or intraosseously depending on the emergency and patient's condition. For anaphylaxis, IM administration in the mid-outer thigh is preferred.
Mechanism of Action
Adrenaline acts on both alpha and beta adrenergic receptors, causing vasoconstriction through alpha-1 receptors, increased heart rate and contractility through beta-1 receptors, and bronchodilation through beta-2 receptors.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid (within seconds to minutes after IM/IV administration).
Excretion
Excreted renally as inactive metabolites.
Half life
Very short (approximately 1-2 minutes).
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after intramuscular (IM) or subcutaneous (SC) administration.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) and monoamine oxidase (MAO).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- No absolute contraindications in life-threatening emergencies where the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
- Relative contraindications: hypertension, hyperthyroidism, pheochromocytoma (use with extreme caution).
Drug Interactions
Beta-blockers
May antagonize the effects of adrenaline, potentially leading to severe hypertension followed by bradycardia.
Cardiac Glycosides and Diuretics
Increased risk of arrhythmias.
General Anesthetics (e.g., Halothane)
May sensitize the heart to adrenaline, increasing the risk of arrhythmias.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) and MAO Inhibitors
May potentiate the pressor effects of adrenaline, leading to hypertensive crisis.
Storage
Store below 25°C, protect from light. Do not freeze. Discard if discolored or contains precipitate.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe hypertension, tachycardia, arrhythmias, palpitations, pulmonary edema, cerebral hemorrhage, and renal failure. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, involving alpha-blockers for hypertension and beta-blockers for arrhythmias (with extreme caution).
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Adrenaline should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. In life-threatening emergencies, the benefits usually outweigh the risks. Limited data suggest it is compatible with breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- No absolute contraindications in life-threatening emergencies where the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
- Relative contraindications: hypertension, hyperthyroidism, pheochromocytoma (use with extreme caution).
Drug Interactions
Beta-blockers
May antagonize the effects of adrenaline, potentially leading to severe hypertension followed by bradycardia.
Cardiac Glycosides and Diuretics
Increased risk of arrhythmias.
General Anesthetics (e.g., Halothane)
May sensitize the heart to adrenaline, increasing the risk of arrhythmias.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) and MAO Inhibitors
May potentiate the pressor effects of adrenaline, leading to hypertensive crisis.
Storage
Store below 25°C, protect from light. Do not freeze. Discard if discolored or contains precipitate.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe hypertension, tachycardia, arrhythmias, palpitations, pulmonary edema, cerebral hemorrhage, and renal failure. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, involving alpha-blockers for hypertension and beta-blockers for arrhythmias (with extreme caution).
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Adrenaline should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. In life-threatening emergencies, the benefits usually outweigh the risks. Limited data suggest it is compatible with breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 12-24 months, check product specific expiry date.
Availability
Hospitals, Clinics, Pharmacies (with prescription), Emergency kits
Approval Status
Approved for emergency use
Patent Status
Generic available (Patent expired)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Epinephrine's efficacy in anaphylaxis and cardiac arrest is well-established through extensive clinical experience and historical studies, forming the basis of current emergency treatment guidelines. Ongoing research focuses on optimal dosing, routes, and formulations.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood pressure monitoring (continuous if IV)
- Heart rate and ECG monitoring
- Blood glucose levels (may increase)
- Electrolyte levels
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the critical importance of immediate administration in anaphylaxis.
- Ensure correct route (IM for anaphylaxis, IV for cardiac arrest) and dilution.
- Monitor vital signs closely post-administration due to potent cardiovascular effects.
Patient Guidelines
- This medicine is for emergency use only and should be administered by a healthcare professional.
- If using an auto-injector, ensure proper training on its use and check expiry dates.
- Seek immediate medical attention after administration, even if symptoms improve.
Missed Dose Advice
Adrenaline is used in emergency situations, thus a missed dose is not applicable. Administration should be as per medical emergency protocols.
Driving Precautions
Not applicable as adrenaline is used in emergency life-threatening situations that preclude driving.
Lifestyle Advice
- Not applicable for routine lifestyle advice as it is an emergency medication.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.