Epinephrine is a medicine with a potent antiasthmatic, vasopressor and cardiac stimulant effect that can be used in emergency situations, and therefore it is a medicine that is usually carried by people who are at high risk of having a serious allergic reaction. After using this medicine it is very important to go to the hospital immediately or consult the doctor who prescribed its use.
Epinephrine can also be known as adrenaline and is sold in conventional pharmacies with a prescription, in the form of a pre-filled syringe with 1 dose of epinephrine to inject into the muscle.
What is it for
Epinephrine is indicated for the treatment of emergency situations of severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis caused by peanuts or other foods, medications, insect bites or bites, and other allergens. Know what anaphylaxis is.
How to apply
The mode of use of epinephrine must be done according to the instructions of the doctor who prescribed the use of this medication, however, to use it generally one must follow the following steps:
- Remove the epinephrine pen from inside the case; Remove the safety lock; Grab the pen with one hand; Press the tip of the pen against the thigh muscle until you hear a small click; Wait 5 to 10 seconds before removing the pen of the skin.
The adrenaline effect is very fast, so if the patient does not feel better in less than 1 minute, the dose can be repeated using another pen. If another pen is not available, an ambulance should be called immediately or the person taken to the hospital.
Possible side effects of epinephrine
The main side effects of epinephrine include palpitations, increased heart rate, excessive sweating, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, dizziness, weakness, pale skin, tremor, headaches, nervousness and anxiety. However, the benefit of using this medication is far greater than its effects, as there is a risk of life for the person who is experiencing a severe allergic reaction.
Who should not use
Epinephrine is contraindicated for people with high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, adrenal marrow tumors, changes in heart rhythm, coronary and myocardial disease, hardening of the arteries, right ventricular enlargement, kidney failure, high intraocular pressure, enlarged prostate, bronchial asthma or patients with hypersensitivity to epinephrine or other components of the formula.
