Racepinephrine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo

Racepinephrine

Rx / OTC

Generic NameRacepinephrine

Therapeutic ClassAdrenergic bronchodilator

Common Strength2.25% inhalation solution

PregnancyUse with caution

Indications ▼

Mild Intermittent Asthma: Temporary relief of bronchospasm symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

Croup (Hospital Use): Nebulized racemic epinephrine for reduction of upper airway edema.

Acute Bronchospasm: Short-term symptomatic relief.

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Racepinephrine is a racemic mixture of epinephrine isomers. It stimulates alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors, causing bronchodilation (beta-2 effect) and vasoconstriction (alpha effect), which reduces airway edema and improves airflow.

Pharmacokinetics: Rapid onset when inhaled. Effects typically begin within minutes and last 1–3 hours. Metabolized by COMT and MAO enzymes; metabolites excreted in urine.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Indication	Dose	Frequency / Notes
Mild Asthma (≥4 years)	1–3 inhalations of 2.25% solution via nebulizer	Repeat every 3 hours as needed; do not exceed recommended daily limit
Croup (Hospital setting)	0.5 mL of 2.25% solution diluted in saline	Nebulized under medical supervision

Note: Not a substitute for long-term asthma control therapy. Seek medical care if symptoms persist or worsen.

Side Effects ▼

Tachycardia or palpitations

Hypertension

Nervousness or tremor

Headache

Dizziness

Rare: arrhythmia

Contraindications ▼

Hypersensitivity to epinephrine or sympathomimetic amines

Use with caution in severe hypertension

Severe cardiovascular disease

Drug Interaction ▼

MAO inhibitors: increased hypertensive effects

Beta-blockers: may reduce bronchodilator response

Other sympathomimetics: additive cardiovascular effects

Tricyclic antidepressants: increased risk of arrhythmia

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed; limited controlled data

Lactation: Caution advised; consult healthcare provider

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Clinical Role: Short-acting bronchodilator for temporary relief of mild asthma symptoms and airway edema.

Advantage: Rapid onset of action.

Limitation: Short duration; not suitable for chronic asthma management.

Monitoring: Heart rate, blood pressure, symptom relief.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Use only as directed via nebulizer

Do not exceed recommended frequency

Seek medical care if symptoms persist beyond 3 days

Report chest pain or severe palpitations immediately

Storage & Handling ▼

Store at 20–25°C

Protect from light

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh:

Aerophin® 11.25 mg/0.5 ml

Global:

Asthmanefrin® Vaponefrin®

Medical Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Adrenergic Agonists • Condition: Asthma • Condition: Croup