Underuse of Epinephrine Autoinjectors in Anaphylaxis: Who Is to Blame?

AbstractPurpose of ReviewIdentify barriers to epinephrine autoinjector (EAI) use at the healthcare system, health care provider (HCP), and patient and caregiver levels.Recent FindingsEAI prescription, carriage, and use for the treatment of anaphylaxis remain suboptimal. The under-diagnosis of anaphylaxis contributes to suboptimal EAI prescription rates. The high costs of EAIs and concerns about their efficacy, safety, side effects, or convenience may prevent some patients from filling prescriptions or carrying EAIs or administering EAIs. Gaps in EAI training, knowledge, and skills persist among not only patients and caregivers but also HCPs.SummaryMultiple stakeholders, including health policy-makers, HCPs, patients, and caregivers, have roles to play in promoting epinephrine access and the proper use of EAIs to treat anaphylaxis. HCPs require education to develop EAI-related knowledge and skills. They should engage at-risk patients in a shared decision-making process to evaluate their need for EAI prescription, develop a comprehensive anaphylaxis management plan, and identify and address any barriers to accessing, carrying, and using EAIs. They should regularly review proper techniques for storing, carrying, and using EAIs with patients and caregivers. Interprofessional collaboration is also essential to increase awareness, education, and availability of EAIs in the wider community.
Source: Current Treatment Options in Allergy - Category: Allergy & Immunology Source Type: research