Health Glossary - For Everyone

Epinephrine
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What is epinephrine?

Epinephrine (or adrenaline) is a neuro-hormone that is produced and secreted by the medulla (inner part) of the adrenal glands in direct response by nervous stimulation. Epinephrine is not only a hormone, but it is also one of the important neurotransmitters that is used by the nervous system to send messages to other nerves and muscle tissue.

Epinephrine the hormone, is produced by the adrenal glands when the body is faced with a stressful (or even life-threatening) situation that causes them to either stand and fight or get away - this is called the "flight or flight" response, which is the way humans react when they are frightened and possibly in danger.

Epinephrine causes blood pressure to raise, the heart rate to beat faster, increased metabolism and blood glucose levels, increased energy production and blood flow to the extremeties is also increased.

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Important epinephrine facts



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Why epinephrine is important

Epinephrine is injected to treat life-threatening allergic reactions caused by a variety of substances: chemicals, fods, insect bites, latex, medication and other items.

Symptoms of allergic reactions include:

Epinephrine as a medication is called a sympathomimetic agents, which works by relaxing the muscles in the airways and also by tightening blood vessels to allow recovery from the allergic reaction.

 

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Last reviewed: 14 January 2007 || Last updated: 21 August 2007

 

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references

 

More information

To learn more, go to the following web sites:


 

NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.

 

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