Anaphylaxis Clinical Pathway — Emergency Department

Epinephrine

Epinephrine is a nonselective alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptor agonist that treats all symptoms of anaphylaxis.

alpha-1 adrenergic effects
  • Increases vasoconstriction and peripheral resistance
  • Decreases mucosal edema
beta-1 adrenergic effects
  • Increases cardiac output by
    • Increasing heart rate (chronotropy)
    • Increasing contractility (inotropy)
beta-2 adrenergic effects
  • Increases bronchodilation
  • Decreases release of histamine and other mediators from mast cells and basophils