Epinephrine Nursing Considerations, Side Effects, and Mechanism of Action Pharmacology for Nurses

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Epinephrine

Generic Name: epinephrine

Trade Name: Adrenalin, EpiPen

Indication: asthma and COPD exacerbations, allergic reactions, cardiac arrest, anesthesia adjunct Action Affects both beta1 and beta2 also has alpha agonist properties resulting in bronchodilation and increases in HR and BP. Inhibits hypersensitivity reactions.

Therapeutic Class: antiasthmatic, bronchodilator, vasopressor

Pharmacologic Class: adrenergic agonist

Nursing Considerations
 Side effects include: angina, tachycardia, hypertension, restlessness, nervousness, hyperglycemia
 Use with MAOI may lead to hypertensive crisis
 Patients should not use stimulants (caffeine, guarana, etc)
 Excessive use may cause bronchospasm
 Assess lung sounds, pulse, BP, and other hemodynamic parameters
 Monitor for chest pain
 Instruct patient to use as directed
 Patient should insure adequate fluid intake to liquefy secretions
 Mouth should be rinsed after inhalation
 Beta blockers may negate effects
 May increase blood glucose levels