What is the standard adult intramuscular dose of epinephrine for anaphylaxis delivered via an auto-injector?

• A. One point zero milligrams IM
• B. 0.3-0.5 mg IM via EpiPen
• C. 0.01 mg/kg IM
• D. 0.15 mg via EpiPen

Answer: (B)

Dosing for adult anaphylaxis with an epinephrine auto-injector is about delivering a rapid, sufficient amount to reverse airway swelling, bronchospasm, and hypotension. In practice, most auto-injectors used for adults deliver 0.3 mg, but some devices provide 0.5 mg to accommodate larger patients. So the standard adult IM dose via an auto-injector is effectively in the 0.3–0.5 mg range. The injection is given into the mid-thigh to ensure quick absorption. If symptoms persist after 5–15 minutes, a second dose can be given and you should seek urgent medical care. The other options describe doses that aren’t typical for standard adult auto-injectors (too small, pediatric dosing, or an inappropriate overall amount for an auto-injector).