Adrenaline Injection

Adrenaline Injection is a life-saving medication used in emergencies to treat severe allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, and cardiac arrest.
It belongs to a class of drugs called sympathomimetic agents and works by stimulating alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors in the body.
It increases heart rate, improves breathing, raises blood pressure, and reduces swelling and hives.

Generic Name

Epinephrine Injection

Brand Names

Includes but is not limited to Adrenalin EpiPen Jext Anapen and others
Available in prefilled auto injectors ampoules and multi dose vials

Indications

Adrenaline Injection is used in emergency treatment of the following

• Anaphylaxis severe allergic reaction due to food insect stings drugs or other allergens
• Severe asthma attacks not responding to inhalers
• Cardiac arrest to restart the heart
• Acute hypotension or shock
• Upper airway obstruction due to swelling such as in angioedema or croup

How It Works

Adrenaline stimulates alpha receptors causing blood vessels to constrict which raises blood pressure
It also stimulates beta receptors in the lungs to relax the muscles and improve breathing
In the heart it increases heart rate and cardiac output
These actions restore blood circulation and prevent further deterioration during an emergency

Dosage and Administration

• Dosage depends on age weight and clinical situation
• For anaphylaxis the standard dose is 0.3 mg intramuscularly in adults and 0.15 mg in children
• For cardiac arrest the dose is 1 mg intravenously every 3 to 5 minutes during resuscitation
• Administered by healthcare professionals or using auto injectors in out of hospital settings

Available Forms

• Prefilled auto injectors single use
• Glass ampoules or vials 1 mg per mL solution
• Multi dose vials for hospital use

Side Effects

Common side effects may include

• Rapid heartbeat
• Tremors
• Anxiety
• Dizziness
• Nausea

Serious side effects include chest pain severe hypertension or arrhythmia especially with repeated dosing or in patients with heart disease

Storage

• Store at room temperature between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius
• Protect from light and heat
• Do not use if the solution becomes discolored

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with heart disease diabetes or hypertension
• Not a substitute for further medical care after an allergic reaction
• After administration seek emergency medical attention immediately