Epinephrine Use for Anaphylaxis – A Multi-Incident Analysis

Anaphylaxis is an acute, life-threatening, systemic allergic reaction associated with various triggers, clinical presentations, and levels of severity.1 Epinephrine is the only life-saving drug used to treat a person experiencing anaphylaxis. Recent epidemiological studies indicate that the prevalence of anaphylaxis is increasing.2,3 The Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) reported that from 2006 to 2015, there was a 64% increase in the number of individuals for whom an epinephrine auto-injector was dispensed, and children were the top consumers.3 Because of the increased use of epinephrine, there is a need to better understand the potential risks and problems associated with use of this high-alert medication.