Table 3. Drug Table Drug
Epinephrine 1:1000
(Adrenaclick® (Ana-Guard® (EpiPen Jr®
)
, Twinject® , EpiPen®
) )
Dose
Adult: 0.2-0.5 mL (mg) Child: 0.01 mL (mg)/kg
0.3 mg, 0.15 mg 0.3 mg 0.15 mg
Comments
Epinephrine and oxygen are the most important therapeutic agents administered in anaphylaxis.
For patient use in an emergency; not a substitute for emergency medical treatment.
Risk Factors for Severity of Allergic Reactions to Foods
ÎThe severity of allergic reactions to foods is multifactorial and variable.
ÎThe severity of a reaction cannot be accurately predicted by the degree of severity of past reactions nor by the level of sIgE or the size of the SPT wheal.
ÎThe factor most commonly identified with the most severe reactions is the coexistence of asthma.
ÎThe severity of allergic reactions to food varies based on:
> The amount ingested > The food form (cooked, raw, or processed) > The co-ingestion of other foods
ÎThe severity also may be influenced by:
> The age of the patient > The degree of sensitization at the time of ingestion > The rapidity of absorption, based on whether ▶ the food is taken on an empty stomach ▶ the ingestion is associated with exercise ▶ the patient has other comorbid conditions (for example, asthma or AD)
ÎSome patients who have had near-fatal or fatal reactions also had 1 or more of the following:
> Concomitant asthma, especially severe asthma with adrenal suppression caused by chronic glucocorticoid therapy
> Lack or delayed administration of epinephrine > Lack of skin symptoms > Denial of symptoms > Concomitant intake of alcohol (which may increase absorption of the food allergen)
> Reliance on oral antihistamines alone to treat symptoms
11
(Br
and)