At what interval can the dose of epinephrine be repeated during resuscitation?

The recommended interval for repeating the dose of epinephrine during resuscitation is every 3 to 5 minutes. This timing is critical because it allows for the drug's pharmacological effects to be maximized while minimizing the risk of adverse effects from too frequent administration. Epinephrine plays a vital role in enhancing coronary and cerebral perfusion during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by causing vasoconstriction and increasing heart rate and myocardial contractility.

Using this interval helps ensure that the circulatory system receives adequate doses of the medication, particularly in the dynamic setting of a cardiac arrest. Administering epinephrine too quickly could lead to a rapid accumulation of the drug, potentially resulting in elevated blood pressure and increased myocardial oxygen demand, which may be detrimental in a resuscitation scenario.

Thus, the 3 to 5 minute interval aligns with current ACLS guidelines that emphasize effective and timed administration of medications during critical situations, enhancing the chances of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) without unnecessarily risking the patient's stability during resuscitation efforts.