Guideline summary · Immunology · 6 min read

Anaphylaxis: emergency treatment

Intramuscular adrenaline first, early and repeated if needed.

Key points

  1. Anaphylaxis: sudden airway, breathing or circulation problems, usually with skin or mucosal changes.
  2. Give IM adrenaline into the anterolateral thigh: 500 micrograms for adults and children over 12.
  3. Repeat IM adrenaline after 5 minutes if there is no improvement.
  4. Refractory anaphylaxis (no improvement after two IM doses) needs an adrenaline infusion with expert help.
  5. Antihistamines are for skin symptoms only; steroids are no longer routine in the emergency phase.

Summary based on the Resuscitation Council UK guideline on emergency treatment of anaphylaxis (2021). A study aid, not a substitute for the current guideline or local protocols.

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