Epinephrine (EpiPen)

Visit: https://nursing.com/140meds to request your free copy of "140 Must Know Meds" 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 bron- chodilation 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