Adrenaline
Also sold as: EpiPen
Prescription neededEmergency and antidotes
Comes as:Injection
Usual adult dose
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): 0.5 mg (0.5 ml of 1 mg/ml) injected into the outer thigh muscle; repeat after 5 minutes if there is no improvement. Children: a smaller dose by weight. Call for emergency help at once.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- fast heartbeat
- shaking
- anxiety
- pale skin
- headache
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- chest pain
- very irregular heartbeat
- very high blood pressure
- stroke
Do not take it, or take care, if
- In a severe allergic reaction there is no reason not to give it — it can save a life
- Heart disease, high blood pressure or overactive thyroid (use with caution outside emergencies)
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Serious1 medicineDo not take these together unless your doctor says so.
- Propranolol
Propranolol can block adrenaline and cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure with slow heartbeat.
Moderate1 medicineTake together only with care. Ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Amitriptyline
Amitriptyline can increase the effect of adrenaline on blood pressure and heart rhythm.