Epinephrine - Medication Detail

Medication Type:  Quick Relief

Generic Names:  Epinephrine

Brand Names:  Adrenalin®, Auvi-Q, Epipen® 2-Pak, EpiPen Jr® 2-Pak, Symjepi®

Description:  This medication comes in various forms and is used for quick relief from asthma attacks. It works by causing muscles around the airways to relax, opening them for easier breathing.

Delivery

Injection pen, injection solution, inhaled nebulization solution

Dosage

Nebulization:  Follow instructions on your prescription.

Injection:  Inject into thigh according to package instructions. Learn how to inject the pen before you need it.

Proper Use

  • See instructions for proper use. Learn how to use this medication before you need it.
  • Used to provide rapid relief of allergic reactions to drugs and other allergens.
  • Do not use if solution appears pink or brown in color, is cloudy, or contains particles.

View video on How to Use an EpiPen® (epinephrine injection) Auto-Injector

View video on How to Use Auvi-Q

Precautions

  • Talk with your doctor if you have heart disease, thyroid disease, diabetes or high blood pressure.
  • This medication may temporarily increase blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
  • Pregnant women should talk with their doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication.

Common Interactions

This drug may interact with your other medications. Some of the medications it interacts with are antihistamines (diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine), nitrates, propranolol and other beta-blockers, entacapone, tolcapone, levothyroxine, linezolid, and methyldopa.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your medications and health problems so they can check for any interactions.

Possible Side Effects

Possible side effects include racing or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, headache, sweating, nausea, and vomiting.

Seek medical attention if the inhaled medication is not effective in relieving your asthma symptoms.

Seek medical attention after using the injection form for a severe asthma attack.

Proper Storage

  • Store at room temperature.
  • Protect from heat, light, and water.
  • Do not store in a bathroom.
  • Store in light-resistant containers.
  • Check the expiration date and replace medication before it expires.