For a hypertensive patient, what is the maximum number of carpules containing 1:100,000 epinephrine that may be used?

For a hypertensive patient, what is the maximum number of carpules containing 1:100,000 epinephrine that may be used?

• A. 1
• B. 2
• C. 3
• D. 4

Answer: (B)

In hypertensive patients, the total epinephrine dose given per dental visit is limited to about 0.04 mg to reduce cardiovascular risk. Each carpule is 1.8 mL, and with a 1:100,000 epinephrine concentration, that equals 0.018 mg of epinephrine per carpule. Two carpules provide 0.036 mg, which is under the 0.04 mg limit. A third carpule would bring the total to about 0.054 mg, exceeding the limit. Therefore, the maximum number of carpules that may be used is two.

In hypertensive patients, the total epinephrine dose given per dental visit is limited to about 0.04 mg to reduce cardiovascular risk. Each carpule is 1.8 mL, and with a 1:100,000 epinephrine concentration, that equals 0.018 mg of epinephrine per carpule. Two carpules provide 0.036 mg, which is under the 0.04 mg limit. A third carpule would bring the total to about 0.054 mg, exceeding the limit. Therefore, the maximum number of carpules that may be used is two.