Epinephrine Hydrochloride Solution for injec... Health Article

Generic name(s):

Epinephrine Hydrochloride Solution for injection

Brand name(s):

Adrenalin, Asthmahaler, Asthmanefrin, Bronchial Mist with Pump, Bronitin, Epi EZ Pen, EpiPen, EpiPen 2-Pak, EpiPen Auto-Injector, EpiPen JR 2-Pak, EpiPen JR Auto-Injector, Epinephrine Bitartrate, Epinephrine Hydrochloride, Micronefrin, Primatene Mist Inhaler, Primatene Mist Inhaler Refill, S2 Inhalant, Sus-Phrine Injection, Twinject Auto-Injector, Twinject Auto-Injector Two Pack

What is this medicine?

EPINEPHRINE (ep i NEF rin) can help to open up air passages and make breathing easier for people with various lung problems such as severe asthma. It also treats severe allergic reactions and certain heart problems. This medicine is sometimes added to certain types of anesthesia to make them last longer.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• blood vessel disease
• diabetes
• glaucoma
• heart disease
• high blood pressure
• over active thyroid
• an unusual or allergic reaction to epinephrine, sulfites, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection under the skin, into a muscle or into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a clinic or hospital setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be prescribed for children for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
• medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
• medicines for hay fever and other allergies
• procarbazine
• stimulants like those used for weight loss or ADHD

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• digoxin
• diuretics
• tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline, desipramine, nortriptyline and others

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your conditions will be closely monitored while you are receiving this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• difficulty breathing, wheezing
• flushing (reddening of the skin)
• irregular heartbeats, palpitations, or chest pain
• numbness in fingers or toes
• swelling of the face
• vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• anxiety or nervousness
• dry mouth
• drowsiness or dizziness
• headache
• increased sweating
• nausea
• weakness or tiredness

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

NOTE:This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.