What is the recommended epinephrine dose for adults with anaphylaxis?

What is the recommended epinephrine dose for adults with anaphylaxis?

• A. 0.3 mg IM
• B. 0.5 mg IV
• C. 1 mg IM
• D. 0.05 mg IM

Answer: (A)

Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, and giving it quickly by intramuscular injection into the mid-thigh provides rapid absorption and a combination of effects that reverse the life-threatening symptoms: alpha-adrenergic vasoconstriction reduces swelling and improves blood pressure, while beta-adrenergic bronchodilation helps with airflow. For adults, the standard initial dose is 0.3 mg of a 1:1000 solution given by IM injection. If symptoms persist or recur, you can repeat the same dose every 5–15 minutes. Intravenous epinephrine is not the initial approach for most patients because it carries higher risks of severe tachyarrhythmias and hypertension and requires careful monitoring and dosing. The other options are either inappropriate in amount or route for the initial treatment of adult anaphylaxis (too small, or an IV dose not suited for first-line use).

Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, and giving it quickly by intramuscular injection into the mid-thigh provides rapid absorption and a combination of effects that reverse the life-threatening symptoms: alpha-adrenergic vasoconstriction reduces swelling and improves blood pressure, while beta-adrenergic bronchodilation helps with airflow. For adults, the standard initial dose is 0.3 mg of a 1:1000 solution given by IM injection. If symptoms persist or recur, you can repeat the same dose every 5–15 minutes. Intravenous epinephrine is not the initial approach for most patients because it carries higher risks of severe tachyarrhythmias and hypertension and requires careful monitoring and dosing. The other options are either inappropriate in amount or route for the initial treatment of adult anaphylaxis (too small, or an IV dose not suited for first-line use).