Complete Emergency Drugs Name & Uses List- ICU Medicine PDF

The Emergency Drugs Name List is often coupled with the finest skills to handle a life-threatening scenario of a patient and save his life. From the initial management to making the quick diagnosis, everything is done carefully to achieve the best outcomes.

However, one must know the emergency drug names and uses to treat and stabilize the patient as early as possible. You can download this list in PPT or PDF format using the link below.



Emergency Drugs Name and Uses List

Following is the list of commonly used emergency medicine for Casualty and ICU.


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Life-Saving Drugs

The list of emergency drugs and their actions PDF includes the following Life-saving drugs (Please refer to Crash Cart for a complete list):

Emergency DrugsActionDosageAdverse Effects
AdenosineUsed to diagnose and treat supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT– rapid heart rate)6 mg IV push, followed by a rapid flush with 20 mL of normal saline, repeated as needed (6-12-12)Facial flushing, chest pain, shortness of breath, headache, dizziness
AtropineUsed in A-V heart block, restore cardiac rate, reduce respiratory secretions0.5-1 mg every 3-5 minutes as neededDry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, tachycardia
Adrenaline (Epinephrine)A sympathomimetic agent used in Cardiac arrest, bronchospasm, and emergency treatment of allergic reactions (Type I), including anaphylaxis1 mg every 3-5 minutes repeated as requiredNervousness, headache, palpitations, tremors, hypertension
AmiodaroneUsed to treat ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia300 mg IV push followed by 150 mg over the next 10 minutes and then a maintenance dose of 1 mg/minNausea, vomiting, bradycardia, hypotension, thyroid dysfunction
AspirinUsed in Myocardial Infarction, LBBB, and other cardiac emergencies where could reduce cardiac tissue death and mortality162-325 mg orallyStomach irritation, bleeding, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness
Calcium ChlorideUsed to treat hypocalcemia (low calcium levels)1-2 g IV pushFlushing, nausea, vomiting, bradycardia, hypotension
Digoxin (Dixin)Used in Heart failure, Atrial Fibrillation0.125-0.25 mg dailyNausea, vomiting, diarrhea, visual disturbances, bradycardia, arrhythmias
Glucose (D10 or D20- Dextrose)Used to treat hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)25-50 g IV push, 50-100 g orallyFlushing, headache, sweating, nervousness
LidocaineUsed for treating ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation1-1.5 mg/kg IV push followed by a maintenance dose of 1-4 mg/minNumbness, tingling, confusion, dizziness, seizures
OxygenUsed to treat hypoxia (low oxygen levels), most emergencies involve the administration of 100% O2 as an initial step. This can vary in patients with COPD.Continuous or Intermittent (as needed)None (when used as directed)
Sodium BicarbonateOften aligned with targeted therapy to treat metabolic acidosis (low blood pH)1 mEq/kg IV pushFlushing, confusion, hypernatremia (high sodium levels)
Common Crash Cart Drugs for ICU and Casualty

Painkillers (Analgesics)

The emergency drug list and uses including Analgesic drugs are:

Emergency DrugsUseDosageSide Effects
Paracetamol (Neomol)Pain relievers and antipyretics for fever and it should be cautiously used in patients with Alcoholic liver disease as they can lead to liver toxicity500-1000 mg IVNausea, vomiting, allergic reactions, liver toxicity (with prolonged use)
Diclofenac (Diclo)NSAID used to treat mild to moderate pain25-50 mg IVNausea, stomach pain, heartburn, drowsiness, dizziness, headache, skin reactions, increased risk of heart attack or stroke
Drotaverine (Drotin)An anti-spasmodic drug used to treat renal colic and abdominal pain40-80 mg PO or IVDizziness, headache, nausea, tachycardia, hypotension
Tramadol (Tramatas)Narcotic analgesic used to treat moderate to severe pain50-100 mg IVNausea, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, constipation, sweating, dry mouth, itching
Valethamate bromide (Epidosin)An anti-spasmodic drug used to treat abdominal pain1-2 mg IVDizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, tachycardia
Morphine Sulfate (not given in India usually)The topmost level of the pain ladder and it should be given carefully to patients with respiratory illness and those recovering from inhalation anesthesia as it can cause further respiratory depression2.5-15 mg IVNausea, dizziness, drowsiness, respiratory depression, hypotension
FentanylUsed for severe pain, same highlighted note as for morphine sulfate25-100 mcg IVRespiratory depression, nausea, dizziness, hypotension
Common Painkiller prescriptions in Casualty

Cardiac Drugs

The ICU emergency drugs name for cardiac diseases are (some have been discussed already in the life-saving drugs section):

Emergency Drugs NameUsesDosageAdverse Effects
Adrenaline (Epinephrine)A sympathomimetic agent used in Cardiac arrest and emergency treatment of allergic reactions (Type I) including anaphylaxis1 mg every 3-5 minutes repeated as requiredNervousness, headache, palpitations, tremors, hypertension
Noradrenaline (Norad)Catecholamine and inotropic agents used to temporarily correct profound hypotension before fluid replacement therapy can work2-20 mcg/min IVIncreased heart rate, increased blood pressure, chest pain, headache, palpitations, nervousness, anxiety
Dopamine (Domin)Catecholamine and inotropic agents are used to treat certain conditions, such as low pressure, that occur when you are in shock, which a heart attack, trauma, surgery, heart failure, kidney failure, and other severe medical conditions may cause2-20 mcg/kg/min IVIncreased heart rate, increased blood pressure, chest pain, headache, palpitations, nervousness, anxiety
Dobutamine (dotamin)Catecholamine and inotropic agents used to treat heart failure2.5-20 mcg/kg/min IVIncreased heart rate, increased blood pressure, chest pain, headache, palpitations, nervousness, anxiety
TorsemideLoop diuretics are used to treat edema from Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), liver disease, or a kidney disorder such as nephrotic syndrome5-20 mg IVLow blood pressure, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, muscle cramps, joint pain, chest pain
Furosemide (Lasix)Loop diuretics are used to treat edema from Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), liver disease, or a kidney disorder such as nephrotic syndrome20-80 mg IVLow blood pressure, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, muscle cramps, joint pain, chest pain
Digoxin (Dixin)Heart failure, Atrial Fibrillation, should be used under consultant guidance as it can lead to digitalis (digoxin toxicity)0.25-0.5 mg IVNausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, blurred vision, yellowing of skin or eyes, confusion, irregular heartbeat, slow heart rate
Nitroglycerin (Nitrocin)used for treating high blood pressure, CHF, MI, and Chest pain0.3-0.6 mg sublingual or 0.5-1 inch of ointment topicallyHeadache, lightheadedness, flushing, dizziness
CCU and Cardiac Life Saving drugs

Respiratory Drugs

The emergency drugs names in the emergency trolley for the respiratory system are:

Drug ListUsesDosageSide Effects
AminophyllineLast resort in Acute Exacerbation of Asthma (given by consultants only) and bronchospasm5-6 mg/kg IV loading dose, then 0.5-0.9 mg/kg/hr maintenanceNausea, vomiting, headache, tachycardia, seizures
Etophylline and Theophylline (Deriphyllin)Bronchodilators are used to treat symptoms and blockage of the airway due to asthma or other lung diseases (eg. emphysema, bronchitis)Nebulizer back to back after 15 minutes till relief observedHeadache, restlessness, nausea, vomiting
DexamethasoneCorticosteroids are used to treat allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, or breathing disorders4-16 mg IV or IMInsomnia, mood changes, increased appetite, weight gain, increased risk of infection
Budesonide nebulizer (derinide)Corticosteroid, an inhalation drug used for Bronchial AsthmaNebulizer (80-320 mcg) back to back after 15 minutes till relief observedHeadache, nausea, cough, throat irritation
AlbuterolUsed to treat bronchospasm (narrowing of the airways)2.5-5 mg via nebulizer or 2 puffs via metered-dose inhalerTremors, nervousness, headache, tachycardia (fast heart rate)
LevalbuterolAlso used in bronchospasm1.25-2.5 mg via nebulizerTremors, headache, nervousness, tachycardia
EpinephrineUsed to treat anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)0.3-0.5 mL of 1:1,000 solution subcutaneously or intramuscularlyTachycardia, hypertension, headache, nervousness
Levosalbutamol and Ipatropium Bromide (Duolin/Combimist)Bronchodilators are used to treat wheezing and breathlessness caused by underlying lung diseaseNebulizer back to back after 15 minutes till relief is observed. Specially used in patients with increased heart rate (tachycardia)Headache, tremors, palpitations, nervousness, throat irritation
Acetylcysteine Solution (Mucocyst)Mucolytics are used to treat abnormal, sticky, or thick mucus secretions in various lung problems such as cough600mg twice a dayRare but Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur
Respiratory Emergency Drugs Chart

Central Nervous System (CNS) Drugs

The Emergency Drugs chart for CNS are:

Drug NameActionDosageSide Effects
Epsolin (Phenytoin)An anti-epileptic drug used to control seizures15-20 mg/kg IV, not to exceed 50 mg/minNausea, vomiting, ataxia, nystagmus, dizziness, hypotension
Phenobarbitone sodiumBarbiturates are used as sedative hypnotics and also anti-convulsants30-120 mg IV, not to exceed 50 mg/minDrowsiness, dizziness, confusion, headache, hypotension
Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4)Seizures associated with Eclampsia & Pre-eclampsia and arrhythmias2-4 g IV over 5 minutes, may repeat as neededFlushing, sweating, nausea, hypotension, respiratory depression
Lorazepam (Lopez)Lorazepam is used to produce sedation needed in Seizures, particularly status epilepticus; Anti-anxiety drug, anti-convulsant2-4 mg IV or IMDrowsiness, dizziness, headache, confusion, blurred vision, hypotension
Midazolam (Midaz)Used to treat seizures, agitation, and anxiety2.5-5 mg IV or IMRespiratory depression, drowsiness, headache, confusion, hypotension
Diazepam (Lori)Benzodiazepine is used to produce sedation needed in Seizures, particularly status epilepticus; anti-anxiety drug, anti-convulsant5-10 mg IV or IM or per rectum GelDrowsiness, dizziness, headache, confusion, blurred vision, hypotension
Prochlorperazine mesylate (Stemetil)Phenothiazine neuroleptic is used to treat acute mania and short-term treatment of anxiety. It may also be used to treat the symptoms of nausea and vomiting5-10 mg IV or IMDrowsiness, dizziness, headache, confusion, blurred vision, hypotension
CNS Drugs used in Casualty and ICU

Gastrointestinal Drugs

The emergency drugs in the emergency trolley for GIT are:

Drugs NameUseDosageAdverse Effects
Drotaverine (Drotin)An anti-spasmodic drug used to treat renal colic and abdominal pain40-80 mg PO or IVDizziness, headache, nausea, tachycardia, hypotension
Hyoscine Butylbromide (Buscopan)Used to relieve symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders such as abdominal cramps and colic20-40 mg IV or IMDrowsiness, blurred vision, dry mouth, flushing, urinary retention, palpitations
Valethamate bromide (Epidosin)An anti-spasmodic drug used to treat abdominal pain1-2 mg IVDizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, tachycardia
Metoclopramide (Perinorm)An anti-emetic used to prevent nausea and vomiting10-20 mg IV or IMDrowsiness, dizziness, headache, confusion, blurred vision, hypotension
Ondansetron (Vomikind)An anti-emetic used to prevent nausea and vomiting4-8 mg IVHeadache, constipation, diarrhea, drowsiness
Diphenoxylate-AtropineUsed to treat diarrhea2.5-5 mg PODrowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation
Omeprazole (Omez)PPI (Proton pump inhibitor) is commonly used for gastritis (heartburn)20-40 mg IVHeadache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, flatulence
Pantaprazole (Pantop)A PPI (Proton pump inhibitor) that is commonly used for gastritis (heartburn)40 mg IVHeadache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, constipation
Ranitidine (Rantac)An H2 Blocker commonly used for gastritis (heartburn)150-300 mg IVHeadache, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation, nausea
Gastrointestinal Drugs List for Emergency Trolley

Obstetrics and Gynecology Drugs

The emergency drugs name and uses for Obstetrics and Gynecology are:

Drug ListAction
Tranexamic acidCoagulation modifier used to reduce bleeding
Magnesium sulfateused as tocolytic to stop preterm labor
Valethamate bromide (Epidosin)A spasmolytic agent used to facilitate labor in cervical spasm
Methylergometrine maleate (Methergine)Uterine stimulants used to treat postpartum or post-abortal uterine bleeding
ICU Emergency Medicine for Obstetrics and Gynecology

Allergy

The emergency drugs listed in ICU and Casualty used for allergy are:

Medicine NameUses
Pheniramine Maleate (Avil)An anti-histamine drug used for allergic conditions such as hayfever, runny nose, itching skin, and skin rashes25-50 mg every 4-6 hours (maximum 300 mg per day)Dry mouth, drowsiness, blurred vision, dizziness, headache
Hydrocortisone (Efcorlin)Corticosteroids are used for Addisonian crisis, allergies, arthritis, asthma, multiple sclerosis, and skin conditions100-200 mgAcne, hirsutism, suppression of the adrenal cortex, weight gain
DexamethasoneCorticosteroids are used to treat allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, or breathing disorder4-16 mg IV or IMInsomnia, mood changes, increased appetite, weight gain, increased risk of infection
PromethazineAn anti-histamine drug used to treat allergies such as itching, runny nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, hives, and itchy skin rashes25-50 mg every 4-6 hoursDry mouth, drowsiness, blurred vision, dizziness, headache
Some of the Crash Cart Trolley Emergency Drugs

Antibiotics

The commonly used antibiotics in ICU and Casualty are:

Antibiotics NameUses
Ceftriaxone (Monocef)Common infections
Amikacin (Amiject)Targeted infections
Gentamicin (Ranbiotic)Targeted infections
Tazobactam + Piperacillin (Piptaz or Tazopip)Broad spectrum antibiotic
Meropenem + Vancomycin (Mero + Vanco)Broad spectrum antibiotic
Ciprofloxacin (Ciplox)Common infections
Antibiotics Chart used commonly

Miscellaneous

Below are some miscellaneous emergency drugs name and uses found in the crash cart trolley:

NameUses
Tranexamic acidAnti-fibrinolytic used to reduce bleeding
Tetanus VaccineVaccines are given after RTA, wounds from metals, etc. to prevent tetanus
Rabies Vaccine (ARS and ARV)Used for prophylaxis against rabies
SuccinylcholineMuscle relaxants are used for relaxing muscles and also used as general anesthesia
PhytomenadioneVitamin K1 used to reduce bleeding
ThiocolchicosideMuscle relaxant with Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic actions
Haemocoagulase (Botropase)Coagulative and Anti-hemorrhagic properties
Calcium Gluconate injectionThe mineral supplement used for hypocalcemic tetany
Ranitidine hydrochloride (Zindac)H2 Blockers are given mostly with other drugs also used to treat ulcers in the stomach and intestines
L-Ornithine Aspartate (Hepamerz)Stable salt of ornithine and aspartic acid used to treat high ammonia levels or severe liver impairment, end-stage cirrhosis
Cholecalciferol (Dewin)Vitamin D3 is used for hypocalcemia, Osteomalacia
Sodium Phosphate enemaSaline laxatives used to treat severe constipation or clean bowel before medical procedures
Rabies Vaccine and Tetanus vaccine are the most used here (Of course Rantac!)

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14 COMMENTS

    • Crash cart is kind of trolley which contains all emergency drugs and medical instruments. Apart from emergency medicines, the crash cart contains devices like defibrillators, bag valve masks, suction devices, etc. The advanced cardiac life support drugs in it include Epinephrine, Atropine, Dopamine, Sodium bicarbonate, vasopressin, etc.

  1. Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuhu. Thank you very much sir.Your article has helped me a lot today And you explained the article in very simple language Which helped me a lot to understand.A bag of thanks may not be able to convey my happiness to you

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