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Alpha/Beta Agonist·Allergy & Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis, Cardiac Arrest, severe bradycardia, profound shock
Max Dose
No Max in Arrest
Half-life
2-3 mins
Route
IM Anaphylaxis
Route
IV Arrest
Overview
Potent, direct-acting alpha and beta adrenoceptor agonist. The universal, immediate life-saving drug for anaphylaxis and cardiac arrest.
Maximum Dose
No absolute maximum in life-threatening emergencies. Titrate to effect.
Clinical Focus
The route determines the dilution. Anaphylaxis is strictly 1:1,000 given IM. Cardiac arrest is strictly 1:10,000 given IV.
Bottom Line
Adrenaline / Epinephrine is the only first-line treatment for anaphylaxis and cardiac arrest, but IV use requires extreme caution with dilution and must be distinguished from the IM auto-injector dose.
Brand Names
EpiPen, Adrenaline Min-I-Jet
Parenteral
Ampoules 1:1,000 (1 mg/1 mL). Prefilled syringes 1:10,000 (1 mg/10 mL). EpiPen (300 mcg autoinjector).
Prescribing & PBS
Adrenaline autoinjectors are S3 and available without prescription; EpiPen/Anapen devices are PBS-listed where criteria are met. Specify device brand/no substitution and provide an ASCIA action plan and device training.
Primary
Anaphylaxis, Cardiac Arrest, severe bradycardia, profound shock.
Clinical Place
Immediate administration is the single most important intervention in anaphylaxis.