Evidence supporting the use of: Adrenaline
For the health condition: Croup
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5
Adrenaline (epinephrine) is scientifically validated for use in the acute management of croup, particularly in cases with moderate to severe symptoms such as stridor at rest, significant respiratory distress, or hypoxemia. Nebulized adrenaline works rapidly to reduce airway swelling by causing vasoconstriction of the mucosal blood vessels in the upper airway, leading to decreased edema and improved airflow. Numerous randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing croup severity scores within 30 minutes of administration, resulting in rapid symptomatic improvement. However, these benefits are typically transient, lasting for about 1-2 hours, which is why adrenaline is used as a temporizing measure while waiting for other treatments, such as corticosteroids, to take effect. Major guidelines, including those from the American Academy of Pediatrics and international consensus statements, recommend nebulized adrenaline for moderate to severe croup. Safety data supports its use, with adverse effects being rare when used appropriately in a monitored clinical setting. Therefore, the use of adrenaline in croup management is strongly supported by high-quality scientific evidence and is considered standard of care for acute symptom relief.
Other health conditions supported by Adrenaline
ArrhythmiaAsthma
Bronchitis
Cardiac Arrest
Croup
Hypoglycemia
Hypotension
Shock
Snake Bite
Wheezing