Mild or Delayed Allergic Reactions

Mild or delayed allergic reactions present as a less severe reaction to allergens than anaphylaxis. They can occur as a reaction to such things as oral antibiotics, latex and acrylic resins. The signs and symptoms are classified as skin allergies: urticaria (itching), angioedema and, respiratory allergies: rhinitis, laryngeal edema, and bronchospasm.^12,13

Treatment consists of:

• Discontinuing the source of the allergy.

• Administration of oral diphenhydramine at a dosage of 1 mg/kg every six hours for children or 25-50 mg for adults every 6 hours for 24 to 48 hours. Diphenhydramine is available in an oral form 12.5 mg/5 ml (Figure 11) and 1 ml ampules or Min-i-jet (50mg/ml) (Figure 12).

Figure 11. Diphenhydramine for oral use

Figure 11. Diphenhydramine for oral use

Figure 12. Diphenhydramine for parenteral use

Figure 12. Diphenhydramine for parenteral use