Epinephrine, an active principle of the adrenal medulla, is a direct-acting sympathomimetic.
It stimulates α- and β-adrenergic receptors resulting in relaxation of smooth muscle of the bronchial tree, cardiac stimulation, and dilation of skeletal muscle vasculature.

Adult
IV
Advanced cardiac life support - 1:10,000 soln: 1 mg, repeat every 2-3 mins if needed.
Anaphylactic shock - 1:10,000 soln: 5 mL infused slowly until a response is achieved.

IM
Anaphylactic shock - 1:1,000 soln: 0.5 mL, repeat every 5 mins as needed.

IM/SC
Acute asthma As 1:1,000 soln: 0.3-0.5 mL.

Inhalation
Acute asthma - per metered dose from pressurized aerosols contains 160-275 mcg of epinephrine: 1-2 inhalations, repeat 3 hr later if needed.

Adverse drug reactions: CNS effects; GI disturbances; CV disorders; difficulty in micturition with urinary retention; dyspnea; hyperglycemia; sweating; hypersalivation; weakness, tremors; coldness of extremities; hypokalemia.

Adapted from CIMS Drug Information System. Internet. Accessed on January 10, 2016.