Emergency Medications Every Pharmacy Technician Should Know
Review the most critical emergency medications including epinephrine, naloxone, nitroglycerin, and glucagon. Know their uses, routes, and storage for the PTCE exam.
Why Emergency Drug Knowledge Matters
Pharmacy technicians may need to quickly locate and prepare emergency medications in hospital settings, or recognize emergency drug prescriptions in community pharmacy. Understanding these life-saving drugs is essential for patient safety and PTCE preparation.
Epinephrine
Epinephrine (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, generic auto-injectors) - First-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Mechanism: alpha and beta adrenergic agonist causing vasoconstriction and bronchodilation. Route: IM injection into the outer thigh. Auto-injector doses: 0.3 mg (adult) and 0.15 mg (pediatric). Also used IV in cardiac arrest (1 mg every 3-5 minutes). Storage: Room temperature, protect from light. Check expiration dates regularly as EpiPens have relatively short shelf lives.
Naloxone (Narcan)
Opioid antagonist that reverses opioid overdose. Available as nasal spray (4 mg) and injectable (0.4 mg/mL). Onset within 2-5 minutes. Duration shorter than most opioids, so repeated doses may be needed. Now available OTC in many states. Pharmacy technicians should know how to counsel patients on proper use.
Nitroglycerin
Sublingual tablets (0.4 mg) and spray for acute angina. Place under the tongue at onset of chest pain. May repeat every 5 minutes for up to 3 doses. Call 911 if pain persists after 3 doses. Storage: Keep in original amber glass bottle, away from heat, light, and moisture. Replace every 6 months once opened.
Glucagon
Used for severe hypoglycemia when the patient cannot swallow. Available as injection kit (1 mg) and nasal powder (Baqsimi 3 mg). Store at room temperature (Baqsimi) or refrigerated (injection kits). Do not mix the injection until ready to use.
Albuterol
Rescue inhaler for acute bronchospasm. Onset within 5 minutes. Critical to have available for asthmatic emergencies in any healthcare setting.
Aspirin
325 mg chewed (not swallowed whole) at the first sign of a suspected heart attack. Antiplatelet effect begins within minutes when chewed.
Emergency medication knowledge is tested on the PTCE and can save lives. Review with PTCB flashcards for quick recall.
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