What is Adrenaline Injections ?
- Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is a hormone and neurotransmitter that is available in injectable form. It is a powerful medication used for various medical emergencies, primarily to treat severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) and cardiac arrest.
Adrenaline Injections Uses
- Anaphylaxis:
- Adrenaline injections are used as a first-line treatment for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) caused by allergens like insect stings, certain foods, medications, or other triggers.
- Cardiac Arrest:
- Adrenaline is used during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for cardiac arrest to improve blood flow to the heart and brain.
- Severe Asthma Attacks:
- In some cases of severe asthma attacks where other treatments have failed, adrenaline may be used to help open the airways and improve breathing.
Adrenaline Injections – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
- Adrenergic Agonist:
- Adrenaline acts on both alpha and beta adrenergic receptors in the sympathetic nervous system.
- It stimulates these receptors, leading to increased heart rate (chronotropy), increased force of cardiac contractions (inotropy), bronchodilation, and vasoconstriction.
- Bronchodilation:
- Adrenaline relaxes the smooth muscles of the bronchi in the lungs, resulting in improved airflow and relief from bronchospasm.
- Vasoconstriction:
- Adrenaline causes constriction of blood vessels (vasoconstriction), which can help increase blood pressure and redirect blood flow to vital organs during emergencies.
Adrenaline Injections – Side-effects
- Increased Heart Rate:
- Adrenaline can cause a rapid and strong heartbeat (tachycardia).
- Palpitations:
- Some individuals may experience a feeling of rapid, strong, or irregular heartbeat.
- Nervousness or Anxiety:
- Adrenaline can cause feelings of restlessness, nervousness, or anxiety.
