Epinephrine Flashcards
Why can’t epinephrine be given orally?
Because it is rapidly metabolized in the GI tract and liver resulting in unstable serum levels
In which events is epinephrine useful?
Allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, asthma, bronchospasm, severe hypotension, cardiac arrest
What is its mode of action?
CNS and cardiac stimulation and bronchodilation
What is it contraindicated from?
Cardiac dysryhtmias, cerebral arteriosclerosis, pregnancy, narrow-angle glaucoma, cardiogenic shock; hypertension, prostatic hypertrophy, hyperthyroidism, pregnancy, diabetes mellitus (hyperglycemia could result)
Which drugs antagonize the effect of epinephrine?
Methyldopa and beta blockers
What increases the effect of epinephrine?
If taken with tricyclic antidepressants and MAOIs
What is the trade name of epinephrine?
Adrenalin
When is the onset if given subQ?
3 to 5 min
When is the peak if given subQ?
20 min
How long is the duration if given subQ?
1 to 4 hours
If taken with digoxin, what would happen?
May cause dysrhythmias
Where is it excreted?
Urine and breast milk
When is the onset if given IV?
Immediately
When is the peak if given IV?
2 to 5 min
How long is the duration if given IV?
1 to 3 hours
What are the side effects?
Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, nervousness, tremors agitation, headache, pallor, insomnia, syncope, dizziness
What are the adverse reactions?
Palpitations, tachycardia, dyspnea, ventricular fibrillation
If taken with decongestants, what happens?
It has an additive effect
What is the effect of epinephrine with urinary output?
Epinephrine’s effect causes renal constriction, thus decreasing renal perfusion and urinary output
What should you monitor if high doses are given and why?
Since administration of epinephrine in high doses might cause cardiac dysrhythmias, ECG monitoring is necessary
What is the use of epinephrine?
It is a potent inotropic (strengthens myocardial contraction) drug that increases cardiac output, promotes vasoconstriction and systolic blood pressure elevation, increases heart rate, and produces bronchodilation
