epinephrine
Pronunciation: ep-ih-NEF-rin
A catecholamine hormone and sympathomimetic drug used both as a vasoconstrictor in local anesthetic solutions and as an emergency medication for anaphylaxis and cardiac arrest.
Full Definition
Epinephrine (adrenaline in British nomenclature) acts on alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors, producing vasoconstriction, increased heart rate, and bronchodilation. In dental anesthesiology, it is the primary vasoconstrictor added to local anesthetic cartridges to extend duration and limit systemic absorption. In emergency medicine, epinephrine is the first-line drug for anaphylaxis and ventricular fibrillation. Editors must apply jurisdiction-specific naming conventions consistently: 'epinephrine' in American English (INN/USAN), 'adrenaline' in British and Australian contexts. The dual role of epinephrine—both routine additive and emergency drug—requires contextual precision when editing clinical documents.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'epinephrine' in American English and 'adrenaline' in British English; flag inconsistencies between the two within a single document.
In Context
- "The protocol specified that epinephrine 1:1,000 must be immediately available in the operatory for the management of anaphylaxis." — Office emergency preparedness protocol
- "The British journal's house style required 'adrenaline' in place of 'epinephrine' throughout the manuscript." — Copyediting note in an international dental journal