DRUG STUDY

Name of Classification Mechanism of Action Indication Contraindication Adverse Effects Nursing Precautions
Drug
Epinephrin Alpha- and Beta- Epinephrine is a It is currently FDA-approved There are no Central nervous 1. When
e Adrenergic sympathomimetic for various situations, absolute system (CNS): implementing
Agonists catecholamine that exerts its including emergency contraindications Anxiety, dizziness, airway clearance
(sympathomimetic pharmacologic effects on treatment of type 1 against using nervousness,
techniques or
agents) both alpha and beta- hypersensitivity reactions, epinephrine. Some agitation, and
adrenergic receptors using a including anaphylaxis, relative headache respiratory
G protein-linked second induction, and maintenance contraindications muscle training,
messenger system. Through of mydriasis during include Cardiovascular: attempt to
its action on alpha-1 intraocular surgeries and hypersensitivity to Arrhythmias, intervene when
receptors, epinephrine hypotension due to septic sympathomimetic chest pain, the airway is
induces increased vascular shock. Off-label uses of drugs, closed-angle hypertension, maximally
smooth muscle contraction, epinephrine include, but are glaucoma, palpitations, and
bronchodilated.
pupillary dilator muscle not limited to, ventricular anesthesia with tachycardia
contraction, and intestinal fibrillation, pulseless halothane.  Drug effect is
sphincter muscle ventricular tachycardia, Gastrointestinal: usually very rapid
contraction. Other asystole, pulseless electrical Nausea and (within 1 min)
significant effects include activity (PEA), croup, and vomiting after inhalation, so
increased heart rate, severe asthma exacerbations chest physical
myocardial contractility, and unresponsive to standard Renal: therapy
renin release via beta-1 treatment. In the operating Decreased renal
interventions can
receptors. Beta-2 effects room (OR) setting, perfusion
produce bronchodilation, epinephrine is also used as a begin soon after
which may be useful as an local anesthetic block. drug
adjunct treatment of asthma Produced by the adrenal administration.
exacerbations and medulla, epinephrine plays a
vasodilation, tocolysis, and vital role in the body’s acute
increased aqueous humor stress response by
production. stimulating the sympathetic
nervous system.
2. Patients should be
monitored for
heart rate, cardiac
rhythm, and blood
pressure
frequently if an IV
drip is to be
infused.

3. MAO inhibitors
will counteract the
effects of
epinephrine.

4. For overdose
cases, medications
such as the alpha
and beta
adrenergic
blockers may be
expected, along
with respiratory
support.