lilpig99
Member
Posted: 08.08.2011 at 01:12:47
EpiPen and EpiPen Jr auto-injectors both contain the active ingredient adrenaline, which is a hormone produced naturally by the body. It is given by injection to treat a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylactic shock. (NB. Adrenaline is also sometimes referred to as epinephrine.)
Adrenaline is released by the adrenal glands in times of stress. It prepares the body when extra energy or exertion is needed, making the body more able to deal with life-threatening situations.
Anaphylatic shock is a severe allergic reaction that can be triggered by a drug or food allergy, or by an insect bite. A severe reaction of this type can include the following symptoms: itching of the skin, a raised rash (like a nettle rash), swelling of your lips, tongue, throat, hands and feet, flushing, weak pulse, tightening of the chest, difficulty in breathing, fall in blood pressure and in some cases loss of consciousness.
Adrenaline reverses the symptoms of anaphylaxis by acting on alpha and beta adrenergic receptors in the body.
Alpha receptors are found on the walls of blood vessels. When adrenaline stimulates these receptors this causes the blood vessels to narrow, which stops the blood pressure from falling too low. It also redirects blood to vital organs like the heart and brain.
Beta receptors are found in the heart and lungs. When adrenaline stimulates these receptors this relaxes and opens the airways, making breathing easier. It also stimulates the heart, making it beat faster and stronger.
Adrenaline also relieves itching, hives and swelling.
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/100000940.html« Last Edited by lilpig99 08.08.2011 at 01:14:05 »
"Those of us who were bewitched by his eloquence on the campaign trail chose to ignore some disquieting aspects of his biography: that he had accomplished very little before he ran for president." ~ Drew Westen, a professor of psychology at Emory University, on Obama, New York Times.