Availability of autoinjectors among food allergic children

Monday, 01 August 2011 11:32

A recent study of food allergic children has found that only approximately 25% of school-aged children have their epinephrine autoinjector available while eating lunch or snacks. A slightly greater proportion (approximately 40%) of children younger than 5 years had an epinephrine autoinjector available at these times.

Epinephrine autoinjector training was associated with increased odds of having an epinephrine autoinjector immediately available. The study authors stressed the need for continued patient education on the importance of having an epinephrine autoinjector easily accessible, especially when eating.

Reference: DeMuth et al 2011. Allergy and Asthma Proceedings. DOI: 10.2500/ajra.2011.32.3458