Adravax Adrenaline Ingredients and Usage

The main active ingredient is Epinephrine, which is chemically identical to the natural hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It is supplied as a sterile solution for injection, typically in a high concentration (1 mg/mL), which often requires dilution before administration depending on the specific use (IV, IM, SC).

Adravax Injection is clinically used for the emergency treatment of:

• Anaphylaxis: Immediate treatment for severe allergic reactions caused by insect stings, foods, drugs, or latex.
• Cardiac Arrest: Used during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to restore a perfusing heart rhythm.
• Shock: To treat hypotension (low blood pressure) associated with septic shock and other shock states (requires specific dilutions and IV infusion).
• Respiratory Distress: Acute severe asthma attacks that are unresponsive to standard therapy.

How Does Adravax Adrenaline Work?

Epinephrine (Adrenaline) is a potent non-selective adrenergic receptor agonist. It works simultaneously on alpha (α) and beta (β) receptors throughout the body, providing rapid, life-saving effects:

1. Alpha-1 (α1) Receptor Activation: This causes immediate vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels). This action rapidly increases peripheral resistance and blood pressure, essential for counteracting the systemic vasodilation seen in anaphylactic and septic shock.
2. Beta-2 (β2) Receptor Activation: This causes bronchodilation (widening of airways) by relaxing the smooth muscles of the bronchi, relieving the severe respiratory distress (wheezing and difficulty breathing) seen in anaphylaxis and severe asthma.
3. Beta-1 (β1) Receptor Activation: This increases the heart rate (chronotropy) and the force of heart contraction (inotropy). This action is vital for cardiac resuscitation during cardiac arrest.

Adravax Adrenaline Side Effects and Warnings

Epinephrine is a powerful drug whose therapeutic effects are closely related to its side effects, particularly due to its potent stimulation of the cardiovascular system. Common side effects can include:

• Palpitations, Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)
• Anxiety, Restlessness, Tremor
• Dizziness, Headache
• Pallor (pale skin)

Serious Warnings and Precautions:

1. Hypertensive Crisis/Cardiovascular Risk: Due to its vasoconstrictive and cardio-stimulatory effects, caution is required in patients with pre-existing heart disease, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes. High doses can induce life-threatening arrhythmias or myocardial ischemia (heart attack).
2. Injection Route: The concentration (1 mg/mL) is highly potent. In anaphylaxis, it is typically administered intramuscularly (IM) or subcutaneously (SC). Intravenous (IV) administration is reserved for specialists in cardiac arrest or shock and must be carefully titrated and diluted.
3. Local Ischemia: Repeated local injection (e.g., in a digit) can cause severe vasoconstriction leading to tissue death (necrosis) due to lack of blood flow.

Adravax Adrenaline Storage Conditions

Adravax Adrenaline Injection is highly sensitive to environmental factors and must be stored properly to retain its potency:

• Store at a controlled room temperature, ideally between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F). Do not refrigerate unless specifically stated by the manufacturer, as cold temperatures may affect rapid use in emergencies.
• Protect from Light: Epinephrine is highly sensitive to light and oxidation. Keep the ampoules/vials in the original carton and out of direct light.
• Inspect Before Use: The solution should be clear and colorless. If it is pink, brown, or contains a precipitate, it must be discarded, as this indicates oxidation and loss of potency.
• Keep all ampoules/vials out of the reach of children.