FPGEE practice question 4 of 10

Indication of epinephrine is:

Full set: 426 questions
Answer options
A: Post myocardial infarction
B: Asthma Correct answer
C: Tremor
D: Trigeminal neuralgia
E: Neurosurgical anesthesia
Correct Answer:
B. Asthma
Explanation

Epinephrine is an endogenous catecholamine that acts as a non-selective agonist at alpha-1, alpha-2, beta-1, and beta-2 adrenergic receptors. Activation of beta-2 adrenergic receptors on airway smooth muscle leads to intracellular cAMP production, stimulation of protein kinase A, and subsequent relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle. Consequently, epinephrine acts as a potent bronchodilator used in the emergency management of acute bronchospasm and severe asthma exacerbations. In addition, its alpha-1 agonist activity reduces mucosal edema within the respiratory tract, further alleviating respiratory distress. Although selective beta-2 agonists are preferred for routine asthma maintenance, epinephrine remains an established treatment option in acute emergency settings involving severe acute asthma and anaphylaxis-induced bronchospasm.

Why Incorrect

A: Epinephrine is avoided post-myocardial infarction because it increases myocardial oxygen demand, heart rate, and peripheral resistance, potentially worsening ischemia or precipitating fatal ventricular arrhythmias. C: Tremor is a recognized adverse effect of epinephrine resulting from beta-2 adrenergic receptor stimulation in skeletal muscle, rather than an indication for its use. D: Trigeminal neuralgia is a neuropathic pain condition treated with anticonvulsants like carbamazepine or gabapentin; adrenergic agonists such as epinephrine have no therapeutic role. E: Epinephrine is not indicated as an anesthetic agent for neurosurgery, as it lacks intrinsic central nervous system anesthetic properties and can provoke dangerous severe hypertension.

References

1. Brunton, L. L., Hilal-Dandan, R., & Knollmann, B. C. (2018). Goodman & Gilman's: The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics (13th ed., Chapter 12: Adrenoreceptor Agonists and Sympathomimetic Drugs, pp. 193-210). McGraw-Hill Education.

2. Katzung, B. G. (2018). Basic & Clinical Pharmacology (14th ed., Chapter 9: Adrenoceptor Agonists & Sympathomimetic Drugs, pp. 137-152). McGraw-Hill Education.

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