Emergency Drugs · α/β adrenergic agonist
Adrenaline (Epinephrine)
Brand: Adrenaline 1:1000 / 1:10,000
Dose
Anaphylaxis: 0.5 mg IM (1:1000). Arrest: 1 mg IV (1:10,000) q3–5 min. Infusion: 0.05–0.5 mcg/kg/min.
Mechanism
Non-selective α₁, β₁, β₂ agonist — vasoconstriction, inotropy, bronchodilation
Indications
- • Anaphylaxis
- • Cardiac arrest
- • Severe bronchospasm
- • Refractory shock
Contraindications
- • No absolute in emergencies
Dose adjustment
Child anaphylaxis: 6–12 yr 0.3 mg IM; <6 yr 0.15 mg IM
Dilution & preparation
1 mg in 100 mL D5W or NS for infusion (10 mcg/mL)
Administration
IM thigh (anaphylaxis); central line for infusion
Use
Anaphylaxis, cardiac arrest, refractory shock, severe bronchospasm.
Monitoring
ECG, BP, HR continuously. Reassess after each IM dose at 5 min.
Side effects
- • Tachyarrhythmias
- • Hypertension
- • Anxiety / tremor
- • Myocardial ischaemia
- • Extravasation necrosis
Pregnancy safety
Use in emergencies; safe for anaphylaxis.
Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.
