Which statement correctly describes the typical adult dose of epinephrine for anaphylaxis?

Which statement correctly describes the typical adult dose of epinephrine for anaphylaxis?

• A. 0.15 mg via EpiPen
• B. 0.01 mg/kg IM
• C. 0.3-0.5 mg IM via EpiPen
• D. 1.0 mg IV

Answer: (C)

Epinephrine for anaphylaxis in adults is given intramuscularly to rapidly reverse airway swelling and bronchoconstriction. The standard adult dose delivered by an auto-injector is 0.3 mg (1:1000 concentration) injected into the lateral thigh, and it can be repeated every 5–15 minutes if symptoms persist. Using a dose in the 0.3–0.5 mg range fits the typical adult auto-injector preparations. Intravenous epinephrine at 1.0 mg is not the first choice in the field due to high risk and requires hospital-level monitoring, while weight-based dosing or pediatric doses (0.15 mg) are not appropriate for an adult.

Epinephrine for anaphylaxis in adults is given intramuscularly to rapidly reverse airway swelling and bronchoconstriction. The standard adult dose delivered by an auto-injector is 0.3 mg (1:1000 concentration) injected into the lateral thigh, and it can be repeated every 5–15 minutes if symptoms persist. Using a dose in the 0.3–0.5 mg range fits the typical adult auto-injector preparations. Intravenous epinephrine at 1.0 mg is not the first choice in the field due to high risk and requires hospital-level monitoring, while weight-based dosing or pediatric doses (0.15 mg) are not appropriate for an adult.