Epinephrine Racemic Flashcards
1
Q
What is the trade name Racemic Epinephrine?
A
Micronefrin
2
Q
What class is it?
A
Sympathomimetic
3
Q
What is the mechanism of action?
A
- bronchodilator that stimulates beta-2 receptors which relaxes the bronchial smooth muscle
- alleviates bronchospasm
- increases vital capacity
- reduces airway resistance
- inhibits the release of histamine
4
Q
Onset
A
within 5 min
5
Q
Duration
A
1-3 hours
6
Q
Indications
A
- bronchial edema
- treatment of bronchospasm
- croup (laryngotracheobronchitis)
- laryngeal edema
7
Q
Contraindications
A
- hypertension
- underlying cardiovascular disease
- epiglottitis
8
Q
Adverse reactions
A
- tachycardia
- dysrhythmias
9
Q
Drug interactions
A
- MAO inhibitors may potentiate the effect of epinephrine
- Sympathomimetics and phosphodiesterase inhibitors may exacerbate the dysrhythmia response
10
Q
Adult dosage of Racemic Epinephrine
A
Dilute 0.5mL in 5mL of saline and administer over 15 minutes
11
Q
Pediatric dosage of Racemic Epinephrine
A
0.25-0.5mL nebulized diluted in 3mL NS and may be repeated in 2 hours if severe symptoms continue
12
Q
Special considerations
A
- Pregnancy category C
- May produce tachycardia and other dysrhythmias
- monitor vital signs closely
- excessive use may cause bronchospasm
- rebound exacerbation of severe croup may occur following drug administration
