Adrenaline injection contains a potent stimulant that acts on alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors. It is used to quickly relieve allergic reactions and anaphylaxis.

Directions/Usage:

Adrenaline is a direct-acting sympathomimetic agent

Adrenaline may be used to provide rapid relief of hypersensitivity reaction to drugs and other allergens, and in the emergency treatment of anaphylactic shock.

Dosage:

Severe hypersensitivity reactions, anaphylactic shock

IM injection

Adults:

The usual dose is micrograms (0.5ml of adrenaline). If necessary, this dose may be repeated several times at 5-minute intervals according to blood pressure, pulse and respiratory function

Half dose of adrenaline may be safer for patients who are taking amitriptyline, imipramine or a beta blocker.

Paediatric population

The following doses of Adrenaline are recommended

• Over 12 years: 0.5 mg IM (0.5 ml solution)
• 6-12 years: 0.3 mg IM (0.5 ml solution)
• 6 months – 6 years 0.15mg IM (0.15mg solution)
• Under 6 months 0.01mg/kg IM (0.01ml/kg solution)

If necessary, these doses may be repeated at 5-15 minutes intervals according to blood pressure, pulse and respiratory function.

Method of administration

Adrenaline (1mg/ml) may be administered undiluted by SC or IM injection. In the shocked patient, the intramuscular route is recommended as absorption from the intramuscular site is more rapid and reliable than from the subcutaneous site

A small volume syringe should be used.

Added Information:

Pregnancy and Lactation

Pregnancy

Parenteral Adrenaline should not be used during the second stage of labour

Breastfeeding

Adrenaline is distributed into breast milk. Breast-feeding should be avoided in mothers receiving Adrenaline injection. Adrenaline should not be used in pregnancy unless clearly necessary.

Effects on ability to drive and use machines:

Adrenaline has moderate influence on the ability to drive and use machines. The patients’ ability to drive and use machines may be affected by the anaphylactic reaction, as well as by possible adverse reactions to adrenaline.

Safety Advice:

Avoid using adrenaline in patients with certain medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, phaeochromocytoma, narrow angle glaucoma, hypokalemia, hypercalcemia, severe renal impairment, prostatic adenoma leading to residual urine, cerebrovascular disease, organic brain damage or cerebral arteriosclerosis. Also avoid it in elderly patients, those with shock (except anaphylactic shock), and those with organic heart disease or cardiac dilatation (severe angina pectoris, obstructive cardiomyopathy, hypertension). Adrenaline can cause anginal pain in the presence of coronary insufficiency.

Common Side Effects:

The occurrence of undesirable effects on depends on the sensitivity of the individual patient and the dose involved.

Storage Advice:

Store at a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight, moisture and at a temperature below 25°C.
Keep medicines out of reach of children.