New Law Allows Texas Pharmacists to Administer Epinephrine

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be fatal. It may be triggered by allergies to foods, insect bites or stings, medications, latex or various other allergic triggers. The reaction can occur quickly after the exposure to the allergen. Recognizing the essence of time in these medical emergencies, Texas made it legal for Texas pharmacists to administer epinephrine.

Provisions of the Law

After giving an epinephrine injection, the pharmacist is required to do the following:

1. Immediately call 911.

2. Notify the patient's doctor immediately if possible, or within 72 hours.

3. Make and keep a detailed record at the pharmacy for 2 years.

The Texas Pharmacy Association favors this law because people who face this medical emergency have additional opportunities to survive.

Causes of Anaphylaxis

Since allergies develop over time, people may suffer an attack of Anaphylaxis with little warning. The immune system develops an antibody called immunoglobulin E that drives inappropriate reactions toward harmless substances. These antibodies normally fight allergens and prevent allergic reactions. However, continued exposure to the allergen may create too many antibodies. Binding of the allergen with antibodies may create a large amount of histamine that can lead to the symptoms of anaphylaxis.

Symptoms of Anaphylaxis

Hives

Drop in Blood Pressure

Itching of the Eyes or Face

Difficulty Swallowing and Breathing

Abdominal Pain

Cramps

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Swelling

This condition is similar to hives, except the swelling is beneath the skin. People who experience any of these symptoms should see their doctor to determine its cause. People who experience several of these symptoms simultaneously should seek immediate treatment.

Diagnosing Anaphylaxis

The symptoms occur within a few minutes to a few hours after an attack. These symptoms are analyzed to determine the cause. Unfortunately, severe asthma attacks, heart attacks, panic attacks and food poisoning have similar symptoms.

An increase in the chemical tryptase may indicate that an allergic reaction has occurred. TA blood test must be made within 3 hours after the symptoms start. However, a normal level of tryptase does not exclude the possibility of an allergic reaction.

Treatment

The only effective treatment that quickly reverses the symptoms of anaphylaxis is epinephrine. These injections are also used in cardiac arrest.These injections are usually given in the thigh.

Protecting Yourself

If you know that you are subject to anaphylaxis you should keep the following in mind:

Are you allergic to certain foods?

Run tests until you know which food is causing your reaction and avoid eating those foods. Visit an allergy testing physician to safely identify which food allergies you have. These physicians can help you recognize which foods should be avoided based off your test results.

Are you allergic to insect bites or stings?

Avoid places where insects might be. Have your doctor write a prescription for two epinephrine kits and carry them with you at all times.

Are you allergic to medications?

Visit with your allergist or doctor to learn more about which medications you're allergic to. You should also consider wearing a bracelet that lists those medications.

Remain alert to symptoms and places to get help for anaphylaxis.