IN THE BODY Adrenaline

Skydiving, ziplining, and swimming with sharks are activities that can release adrenaline, a hormone that prepares the body for action. When we’re excited or afraid, our bodies produce adrenaline which increases heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate. The hormone is produced in the medulla of the brain and in the central nervous system, and triggers the “fight, flight, or freeze” response by sending more oxygen and blood to our muscle groups. At the same time, the body’s pain receptors are temporarily reduced to allow us to react to the situation.

After an adrenaline rush, the body slowly returns to its normal state. To ease back from an adrenaline rush, taking deep breaths and getting fresh air can help calm unwanted anxiety. Some people actively seek out activities that release adrenaline, which is sometimes referred to as being an “adrenaline junkie.”

Adrenaline will

+ Increase your heart rate

+ Improve breathing efficiency

Epinephrine for anaphylaxis

+ Increase blood pressure

+ Heighten alertness

+ Increase blood sugar levels

In medicine, adrenaline is used to reverse the effects of anaphylaxis by constricting blood vessels and increasing blood pressure to decrease swelling. EpiPens, emergency devices that contain epinephrine (adrenaline), are prescribed after allergy and blood testing and should only be used under the direction of a healthcare professional. Unintentional injection of an EpiPen can cause dangerous side effects such as dangerously high blood pressure, stroke, or death. It’s important to stay informed about the proper use of EpiPens and to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2023

“In Year 12, I didn’t have a clear idea of what I wanted to do after school. I had a passion for chemistry, and my chemistry teacher suggested pharmacy as a potential career. My mum worked at a pharmacy in my hometown, so I had some exposure to the industry at a young age, but I never considered it as a career. After speaking with my teacher and mum, I started exploring pharmacy as an option and now, 6 years later, I am loving it.

Alive gave me the opportunity to start my pharmacy career by offering me a scholarship to work in their stores while I was studying. This was a huge benefit as it allowed me to connect my theoretical knowledge from university with real-life practice. It was wonderful to continue my internship with the company I started my journey with, and it meant I was familiar with the protocols and systems used within the group.

Celebrating women’s achievements, staff highlight, meet Pharmacist Chloe

“Pharmacy is a highly rewarding career that enables you to assist patients in various aspects of their health.”

Chloe studied Pharmacy at university and now works with our Alive Team as Pharmacist in Charge. Read more about Chloe’s story...

I was able to start working in my first year of pharmacy thanks to a generous scholarship from Nick Loukas, the founder and brand manager of Alive Pharmacy. Balancing university and my new job was a major challenge, but as I progressed through the years, my work became increasingly relevant and helped me develop my communication and counselling skills.

Every day is filled with new and interesting stories. I love hearing from all our different customers, and it truly makes my day.”