Emergency drugs in dental practice.

An increase in the life expectancy of medically compromised patients has resulted in greater numbers of these individuals within our ageing population. As dental surgeons are increasingly expected to provide care for such patients, the likelihood of a medical emergency occurring within the dental surgery may increase. This article reviews the more common emergency drugs that a dentist may have to administer in the event of a medical emergency. The indications, mode of action, method of administration and dose of each agent are discussed.