FPGEE practice question 4 of 10
Indication of epinephrine is:
Full set: 426 questionsEpinephrine 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.
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.
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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