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Antibiotic-induced anaphylaxis — SCE Acute Medicine MCQ

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EasyAllergy and immunologyAntibiotic-induced anaphylaxisSCE Acute Medicine

A 40-year-old woman develops wheeze, tongue swelling and hypotension 10 minutes after intravenous co-amoxiclav. Oxygen saturation is 89% on air and she has a widespread urticarial rash. What is the most important immediate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Give intramuscular adrenaline 500 micrograms into the anterolateral thigh

Airway swelling, bronchospasm and hypotension after drug exposure is anaphylaxis, and intramuscular adrenaline is the first-line treatment. Antihistamines and bronchodilators are adjuncts and must not delay adrenaline. Tryptase can support later confirmation but treatment is clinical and immediate.

Reference: Resuscitation Council UK anaphylaxis guideline 2021