epinephrine

(ep″ĭ-nef′rin)

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[epi- + nephr- + -in]
C9H13NO3; a catecholamine produced by the adrenal gland, secreted when the sympathetic nervous system is stimulated. In the physiological response to stress, it is responsible for maintaining blood pressure and cardiac output, keeping airways open wide, and raising blood sugar levels. All these functions are useful to frightened, traumatized, injured, or sick humans and animals. The therapeutic uses of epinephrine are diverse. As one of the key agents used in advanced cardiac life support, it is helpful in treating asystole, ventricular arrhythmias and other forms of cardiac arrest. It also counteracts the effects of systemic allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) and is an effective bronchodilator. It can be used to control local hemorrhage by constricting blood vessels, prolonging the effects of local anesthesia.
SEE: catecholamine

INCOMPATIBILITY
Epinephrine is incompatible with light, heat, air, iron salts, and alkalies.
SYN: SEE: adrenaline

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