Adrenaline (Epinephrine)

Dilution guide

Indication

Anaphylaxis, cardiac arrest, refractory shock, severe asthma.

Preparation

Infusion: 1 mg in 50 mL D5W (20 mcg/mL). Anaphylaxis IM: 0.5 mg (1:1000) IM.

Dilution

1 mg / 50 mL D5W → 20 mcg/mL

Rate

0.05–0.5 mcg/kg/min IV; IM 0.5 mg q5min PRN in anaphylaxis.

Monitoring

  • ECG (arrhythmia)
  • BP
  • Glucose
  • Lactate

Common errors

  • Confusing 1:1000 (IM) vs 1:10 000 (IV) concentrations
  • IV push in non-arrest patient → severe hypertension

Pearls

  • IM thigh in anaphylaxis — fastest absorption
  • Cardiac arrest: 1 mg IV/IO q3–5 min
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