How is aerosolized epinephrine prepared according to the source?

• A. 1 mL epi with 9 mL saline
• B. 2 mL epi with 3 mL saline
• C. 5 mL epi with 5 mL saline
• D. 0.5 mL epi with 4.5 mL saline

Answer: (B)

Nebulized epinephrine is prepared by diluting a stock solution of 1:1,000 epinephrine with normal saline to a small, workable volume for the nebulizer. The recommended mixture in the source is 2 mL of 1:1,000 epinephrine plus 3 mL of saline, for a total of 5 mL. This creates a concentration that provides a therapeutic nebulized dose—enough to produce bronchodilation and reduce mucosal edema while limiting systemic effects. Using more saline (a more dilute mix) would lower the dose and risk insufficient effect, while using more epinephrine (a less diluted mix) would raise the dose and increase the chance of tachycardia and other side effects. The 2 mL/3 mL combination thus offers a balanced, safe, and effective preparation for aerosolized delivery.