Epinephrine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects

Epinephrine is a medication that constricts blood vessels and dilates bronchial passages. It is commonly used to treat severe allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and cardiac arrest.

Epinephrine FAQ

Image credit: emsstuff.com

What is epinephrine (adrenaline)?

Epinephrine (adrenaline) is a powerful stress hormone and neurotransmitter produced by the adrenal glands. It treats septic shock and anaphylaxis.

How long does epinephrine last?

When administered parenterally, epinephrine has a rapid onset but a short duration of action. When given intravenously, it has a half-life of fewer than 5 minutes. Metabolism is primarily in the liver, along with various other locations such as the kidneys, skeletal muscle, and mesenteric organs.

Where does epinephrine come from?

When the nerve signal reaches the adrenal gland, chromaffin cells, in the medulla of the adrenal gland, release epinephrine. Epinephrine then enters the bloodstream. It is thus carried around the body to cells in various locations, where it initiates several responses. (5)

What is epinephrine used for?

Epinephrine's most popular use is to reverse the effects of severe allergic reactions. Epinephrine in the auto-injector form, EpiPen, has been available since 1987 in the USA. On August 16, 2018, Teva Pharmaceuticals USA gained approval to market its generic epinephrine auto-injector in 0.3 milligram (mg) and 0.15 mg strengths.

What is epinephrine & adrenaline?

Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is a hormone and medication which is involved in regulating visceral functions (e.g., respiration). It appears as a white microcrystalline granule. Adrenaline is normally produced by the adrenal glands and by a small number of neurons in the medulla oblongata.

How does epinephrine work?

Epinephrine, hormone secreted mainly by the medulla of the adrenal glands that functions primarily to increase cardiac output and raise blood glucose levels. Epinephrine is released during acute stress and is associated with the fight-or-flight response. Learn more about epinephrine’s production and effects.

How does epinephrine affect the body?

Epinephrine’s major action is in its role as a hormone. Epinephrine is released by your adrenal glands in response to stress. This reaction causes a number of changes in your body and is known as the fight-or-flight response. What’s the fight-or-flight response?

Is epinephrine a neurotransmitter?

Epinephrine, also called adrenaline, is both a hormone and a neurotransmitter. As a hormone, it’s made and released by your adrenal glands, which are hat-shaped glands that sit on top of each kidney.