Overview
11 DESCRIPTION AUVI-Q (epinephrine injection, USP) 0.3 mg, 0.15 mg and 0.1 mg is an autoinjector and a combination product containing drug and device components. AUVI-Q includes audible (electronic voice instructions, beeps) and visible (LED lights) cues for use. The needle automatically retracts after the injection is complete. Each AUVI-Q 0.3 mg delivers a single dose of 0.
Mechanism of Action
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action Epinephrine acts on both alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors. 12.2 Pharmacodynamics Through its action on alpha-adrenergic receptors, epinephrine lessens the vasodilation and increased vascular permeability that occurs during anaphylaxis, which can lead to loss of intravascular fluid volume and hypotension. Through its action on beta-adrenergic receptors, epinephrine causes bronchial smooth muscle relaxation and helps alleviate bronchospasm, wheezing and dyspnea that may occur during anaphylaxis. Epinephrine also alleviates pruritus, urticaria, and angioedema and may relieve gastrointestinal and genitourinary symptoms associated with anaphylaxis because of its relaxer effects on the smooth muscle of the stomach, intestine, uterus and...
Indications
- 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE AUVI-Q® is indicated in the emergency treatment of allergic reactions (Type I) including anaphylaxis to stinging insects (e.g., order Hymenoptera, which include bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets and fire ants) and biting insects (e.g., triatoma, mosquitoes), allergen immunotherapy, foods, drugs, diagnostic testing substances (e.g., radiocontrast media) and other allergens, as well as idiopathic anaphylaxis or exercise-induced anaphylaxis.
Common Doses
- 0.3 mg
- 0.15 mg
- 0.1 mg
Dosage
2 DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION Selection of the appropriate dosage strength (AUVI-Q 0.3 mg, AUVI-Q 0.15 mg or AUVI-Q 0.1 mg) is determined according to patient body weight. Patients greater than or equal to 30 kg (approximately 66 pounds or more): AUVI-Q 0.3 mg Patients 15 to 30 kg (33 to 66 pounds): AUVI-Q 0.15 mg Patients 7.5 to 15 kg (16.5 to 33 pounds): AUVI-Q 0.1 mg Inject AUVI-Q intramuscularly or subcutaneously into the anterolateral aspect of the thigh, through clothing if necessary.
Contraindications
- 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS NONE
Side Effects
- 6 ADVERSE REACTIONS Due to lack of randomized, controlled clinical trials of epinephrine for the treatment of anaphylaxis, the true incidence of adverse reactions associated with the systemic use of epinephrine is difficult to determine. Adverse reactions reported in observational trials, case reports, and studies are listed below. Common adverse reactions to systemically administered epinephrine include anxiety; apprehensiveness; restlessness; tremor; weakness; dizziness; sweating; palpitations; pallor; nausea and vomiting; headache; and/or respiratory difficulties.
Interactions
- 7 DRUG INTERACTIONS 7.1 Drugs Increasing Risk of Cardiac Arrhythmias Patients who receive epinephrine while concomitantly taking cardiac glycosides, diuretics, or anti-arrhythmics should be observed carefully for the development of cardiac arrhythmias [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]. 7.2 Drugs Potentiating Effects of Epinephrine The effects of epinephrine may be potentiated by tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, levothyroxine sodium, and certain antihistamines, notably chlorpheniramine, tripelennamine, and diphenhydramine. 7.