EPINEPHRINE-RESISTANT ANAPHYLAXIS IN A PATIENT TAKING PROPRANOLOL HYDROCHLORIDE

Abstract

A patient taking propranolol hydrochloride, 40 mg twice daily for hypertension, had a constitutional reaction several minutes after receiving a maintenance allergy injection. When the reaction proved resistant to treatment with aqueous adrenalin [epinephrine], intubation with 100% O2 ventilation and the i.v. administration of NaHCO3 with pancuronium bromide, diphenhydramine hydrochloride and dexamethasone were required for the patient''s recovery. In allergy patients, low doses of propranolol hydrochloride can result in acute pulmonary failure.