Sometimes, your chest suddenly tightens and you have difficulty breathing, right? This is a very familiar experience, especially for someone with asthma. An epinephrine inhaler is a type of inhaler that is used to provide quick relief in times like these. Today, we will talk about this in a little more detail, as if we were talking to a friend.
What is this Epinephrine inhaler?
Simply put, it is a medicine used to treat breathing problems, especially conditions like asthma. It comes in the form of an inhaler. When we use it, the medicine in it goes directly to the lungs and opens up the blocked airways. This reduces chest tightness and makes breathing much easier. Because it provides immediate relief, it is often used as a 'rescue' inhaler used in emergencies. You may find it under brand names like Primatene Mist.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Okay, this is very important. Before you use this medicine, you need to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. Because using this medicine with some medical conditions can be risky. Especially if you have the following conditions, be sure to inform your doctor.
| Illness or condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | The condition of elevated blood sugar levels. |
| Glaucoma | A condition associated with increased eye pressure. |
| Heart disease | Any type of heart disease. |
| High blood pressure | High blood pressure condition. |
| Parkinson's disease | A disease affecting the nervous system. |
| Pheochromocytoma | A condition caused by a tumor in the adrenal gland. |
| Prostate diseases | Prostate problems in men. |
| Seizures | If you have had seizures before. |
| Thyroid diseases | Problems related to thyroid function. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to epinephrine or other medicines, foods, or dyes. |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How do I use this inhaler?
This is used by inhaling through the mouth. Read the label or instruction leaflet carefully and use it as directed. Never use more than the prescribed dose. This medicine is not for daily use. It should be used only when you have difficulty breathing.
Although this is sometimes recommended for children over 12 years of age, you should definitely talk to your doctor about it.
Attention: Overdose
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This is an emergency, so don't delay.
Another thing, this medicine is for you only. Never let anyone else use your inhaler.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
This is also very important. Epinephrine can interact with some other medications. This means that taking it with other medications can cause unwanted side effects or change the way the medication works. So tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including medications for other conditions, vitamins, and even herbal products).
| Drugs that may interact with epinephrine | |
|---|---|
| Medicines that should never be taken together: | |
| Some types of gases used for anesthesia (general anesthetics) - e.g. desflurane, isoflurane, sevoflurane. | |
| Other medications that may cause interactions (inform your doctor): | |
| Medicines for allergies, coughs, and colds (Antihistamines) | Medications for blood pressure, heart disease, and heart rhythm disorders |
| Medications for conditions such as depression and anxiety | Some medications for Parkinson's disease (e.g. entacapone) |
| Digoxin, Diuretics, Levothyroxine, Oxytocin | MAOI antidepressants (e.g. Marplan, Nardil) |
| Steroid medications (e.g. prednisone, cortisone) | Theophylline |
Things to be careful about when using an inhaler
See your doctor regularly to monitor your symptoms. If your asthma gets worse, or you need to use your inhaler more often than usual, talk to your doctor right away. This may mean that your asthma is not under control and your treatment may need to be changed.
It's important to work with your doctor to create a personalized asthma action plan that will help you understand what to do when your symptoms are getting worse (yellow zone) and when you need emergency medical attention (red zone).
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this medicine can cause some side effects. However, not everyone gets them. Some side effects are serious and you should seek medical advice immediately.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Symptoms of a heart attack | Pain or tightness in the chest, shoulder, arm, or jaw, nausea, difficulty breathing, cold sweats, fainting. |
| Changes in heart rate | Fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, chest pain, difficulty breathing. |
| Increased blood pressure | Severe headaches, vision changes. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious (but tell your doctor if they persist) | |
| Anxiety, restlessness | Headache |
| Dizziness | Nausea or vomiting |
| Hand tremors | Sweating |
How do you store and dispose of the medicine?
Keep this inhaler out of the reach of children and pets . Store at a temperature between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius (normal room temperature). Keep the inhaler away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Never use expired medicine. Ask your doctor how to safely dispose of expired or no longer needed medicine.
Take-Home Message
- An epinephrine inhaler is not a daily maintenance medication, but rather a quick relief medication used when asthma symptoms suddenly appear.
- Before using this medicine, tell your doctor about all other medical conditions you have and all other medicines you are taking.
- Never use more than the prescribed dose.
- If your asthma gets worse or you need to use your inhaler more often, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you suspect an overdose, go to a hospital emergency room (ETU) immediately or contact the National Poisons Information Center.
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