Medical Uses:
As stated, there are a variety of applications for synthesized epinephrine. In cases of severe blood loss or shock, epinephrine can be used to constrict blood vessels, minimizing further blood loss. In cases of cardiac arrest, use of epinephrine increases blood flow through the coronary artery, mitigating the severity of damage by cardiac arrest, and increasing the chances for successful resuscitation. However, if dosage is not carefully controlled, brain and heart damage may occur. Another common use of epinephrine is in the treatment of an anaphylactic shock, often resulting from an allergic reaction. In anaphylactic shock, the airways constrict, as do the veins. This results in a state where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to the body and the patient is unable to draw enough oxygen into the body. Epinephrine combats the process by countering the allergic reaction, increasing general blood flow, and reopening constricted veins. Epinephrine for the treatment of allergic reactions and anaphylactic shock is commonly available as self injectible epinephrine (EpiPens). Epinephrine can also be used for the short term treatment of asthma attacks, however adrenaline in the body decays quickly, and stabilization after an asthma attack requires hospitalization.