Updated anaphylaxis guidelines: management in infants and children

Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are unpredictable, and initial signs of what could be fatal anaphylaxis can be mild. Adrenaline (epinephrine) remains the first-line drug of choice for the acute management of anaphylaxis and should be administered early. There are no contraindications to intramuscular adrenaline in the treatment of anaphylaxis. Correct positioning of the patient is vital as death can occur within minutes if a patient stands, walks or sits up suddenly. Position the patient correctly first and then promptly administer intramuscular adrenaline. Updated guidelines by the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy now recommend that the 0.15 mg adrenaline injector device may be prescribed for infants and children weighing 7.5-10 kg. The recommendation to use the 0.3 mg adrenaline injector device for those over 20 kg remains unchanged. The adrenaline doses in Australian Prescriber's anaphylaxis wallchart remain valid.

Automated summary

Severe allergic reactions can be unpredictable and potentially fatal, with mild initial symptoms. Adrenaline is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, and prompt administration is crucial. Proper patient positioning and timely adrenaline injection are essential for successful management of anaphylaxis.