Adrenaline

Adrenaline/Epinephrine

Our Allergy Clinic prioritizes everyone’s safety and well-being, especially when it comes to managing severe allergic reactions. For individuals at risk of anaphylaxis, having access to adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) is critical. This life-saving medication is essential to managing severe allergies, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.

How Does Adrenaline Work?

Adrenaline generally works rapidly to counteract the symptoms of anaphylaxis by minimizing swelling, opening the airways, and increasing blood pressure. Administering adrenaline as soon as the signs of a severe allergic reaction appear is crucial, as early treatment makes serious symptoms easier to manage.

While some people may initially use antihistamines to delay or avoid adrenaline, adrenaline should always be the first choice if you suspect anaphylaxis.

Who Should Consider Carrying Adrenaline?

Your doctor may prescribe adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs) to people who:

  • Have experienced anaphylaxis with an unknown cause (idiopathic anaphylaxis).
  • Have had anaphylaxis triggered by a known allergen that is difficult to avoid, such as peanuts.
  • Have reacted to trace amounts of an allergen.
  • Have Food-Dependent Exercise-Induced Anaphylaxis (FDEIA), in which allergic reactions occur if certain foods are consumed around the period of physical activity.
  • Have other major risk factors, like asthma, in addition to a food allergy.
  • Spend substantial time in areas with no easy access to emergency care.

In some cases, long-term use of adrenaline may not be necessary if the allergen is easily avoidable, such as with a medicine allergy.

Types of Adrenaline Auto-Injectors

The following brands of adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs) are available at our clinic:

  • EpiPen®: 3 mg of adrenaline for adults and 0.15 mg for junior. It is mostly suitable for kids weighing 7.5 kg–25 kg.
  • Jext®: 300 mcg of adrenaline for adults and 150 mcg for junior. It is ideal for minors weighing 25 kg–30 kg.
  • Emerade®: Available in doses of 300 mcg and 500 mcg adrenaline for adults and 150 mcg for junior. It’s recommended for children weighing 15 kg–30 kg.

If you have been prescribed adrenaline, it is essential to always carry two in-date auto-injectors. This is because one device may misfire, or you might require a second dose during a severe allergic reaction.

Adrenaline auto-injectors also have a specific use-by date. It’s thus important to ensure you request replacements from your GP at least a month before expiry to avoid being caught without a functional device.

Many manufacturers offer an expiry alert service. By registering your device and its expiry date, you can get reminders when it’s time to replace it.

How to Use Adrenaline Auto-Injectors

Adrenaline auto-injectors are made to ensure easy use by you or someone assisting you, even without medical training. However, it’s crucial to understand how to use them properly and practice regularly to prepare for an emergency.

Ask your doctor to demonstrate how to use the specific brand of auto-injector prescribed to you. You can also find instructional videos and get a free trainer device on the manufacturer’s website to practice safely.

The device is intended to be injected into the middle of the outer thigh (upper leg), and this can be done through clothing if necessary.

Who Should Learn How to Use Adrenaline Auto-Injectors?

Anyone who may need to administer adrenaline to you or your child during an emergency needs to learn how to correctly use the auto-injector. This includes family members, co-workers, and, for children, school or nursery staff.

When To Give Adrenaline

It’s advisable to use the first auto-injector immediately if you experience ABC symptoms.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can develop rapidly and requires prompt treatment since it may be life-threatening. Healthcare professionals normally consider an allergic response to be anaphylaxis if it is characterized by trouble breathing or impacts blood pressure or heart rhythm.

The ABC symptoms include:

  • Airway: Inflammation in the tongue, throat, or upper airways, which can lead to a hoarse voice, tightness in the throat, and difficulty swallowing.
  • Breathing: Unexpected onset wheezing, noisy breathing, or difficulty breathing.
  • Circulation: Faintness, dizziness, sudden sleepiness, tiredness, pale and clammy skin, confusion, or loss of consciousness.

In severe cases, there may be a dramatic drop in blood pressure, causing weakness and floppiness and potentially feeling a sense of impending danger. If left untreated, any of these symptoms may result in collapse, unconsciousness, and even death in rare instances.

In addition to the ABC symptoms, other signs that might occur include:

  • A red, elevated rash (hives or urticaria) on any part of the body
  • A tingly or itchy sensation in the mouth
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or eyes
  • Stomach ache or vomiting

These symptoms may occur on their own, and if the ABC symptoms aren’t present, the reaction could be less severe and not classified as anaphylaxis. However, it’s important to monitor closely in case of the development of the ABC symptoms.

In a situation where symptoms fail to improve or worsen, administer the second adrenaline auto-injector about 5 minutes following the first dose.

Positioning Your Body during Anaphylaxis

Whenever you suspect anaphylaxis, how you position your body is crucial. Lie flat on your back with your legs elevated to ensure blood flow to your heart and other vital organs.

If you’re having difficulty breathing, you should be propped up for a short period. Do not suddenly change posture or stand up or sit, despite feeling better, because this could cause a sudden drop in blood pressure and cause the heart to stop.

Protect Yourself Today

Adrenaline saves lives, but preparedness is key. If you’re at risk of anaphylaxis or have questions about adrenaline auto-injectors, we are here to help. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how we can support you in staying safe and in control.

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