Epinephrine

Epinephrine (also referred to as adrenaline;) belongs to a group of drugs called (amongst others) cardiac resuscitation and is a neurotransmitter that is produced in the center of the adrenal glands. The drug is given in an emergency to stimulate heart activity and stroke volume, dilates the pupils, and constricts arterioles in the skin and gastrointestinal tract while dilating arterioles in skeletal muscles, and raise low blood pressure. The drug is injected to counteract cardiac arrest, or to relieve severe allergic reactions to drugs, food or insect stings. It is provided as a pre-filled syringe for immediate self-injection at the start of an attack for those patients who are at risk of anaphylaxis. (anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that involves the entire body).

The drug can also be used as eye drops to lower the pressure within the eye. This makes it useful in glaucoma and eye surgery. Epinephrine constricts blood vessels and is used to control bleeding and controls the effect of local anaesthetics.

People with a history of anaphylaxis should carry an auto-injectable epinephrine with them at all times. As always go to the emergency room after you use it for a follow-up from the physician.

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Quick Guide

• Drug for glaucoma with overdose danger – HIGH.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – YES. (generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without patent protection.
• Alcohol Avoidance – NO.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted adverse effects.

Common: Blurred Vision, Cold Hands And Feet, Dry Mouth, Headaches, Nausea, Nervousness, Palpitations, Restlessness, Vomiting
Rare: Difficulty Breathing, Pounding, Fast, or Irregular Heartbeat

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

The long term use of epinephrine eye drops is not recommended for use with soft contact lenses.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

There are no known problems with driving and hazardous work. There are no known problems with alcohol.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

This drug would not usually be prescribed. It may cause defects in the fetus and prolong labour. Adverse effects are unlikely if you are breast feeding. You should consult your doctor.

Epinephrine is classified as a pregnancy Category C medicine by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Category C… Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Surgery And Dental Procudure

Epinephrine may need to be stopped before you have a general anesthetics. You should consult with your doctor or dentist before any surgery is under-taken.

Tell Your Doctor Or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

See full list of things you should tell your doctor about.»

Over 60′s & Children

There is a likelihood of adverse effects as far as the over 60′s are concerned, which would require a reduced dose. There would also be a reduced dose necessary for infants or children.

Overdose

You are advised to seek immediate medical advice in all cases of overdose.

Failing this go to your nearest accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you. This will help the hospital staff identify what has been taken and work towards given the right kind of help without delay.

Overdose symptoms could show as palpitations, breathing difficulties or loss of consciousness.

Other Medication Reactions

Drugs such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline interact with epinephrine to increase palpitations and/or increase blood pressure. Certain beta blockers such as propranolol can produce a dangerous rise in blood pressure if taken alongside epinephrine. Epinephrine may reduce the effectiveness of antidiabetic drugs.

Missed A Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

Do not stop taken the eye drops without consulting your doctor, Stopping the drug could lead to a worsening of the underlying condition.

Effect Of Medication

Effect can be felt within 5 minutes for the injection and within 1 hour for the eye drops. The lasting effect can be up to 4 hours for the injection and up to 24 hours for the eye drops.

Storage and Safety

Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach of children. Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container. Return all un-used or old medicines to your pharmacist. Do not discard old or unwanted medication into your trash, sink or toilet.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.