Further Treatment

C1 esterase inhibitor

Non-histaminergic angioedema such as ACE-induced angioedema and hereditary angioedema can present very similarly to anaphylaxis. Hereditary angioedema caused by C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency is resistant to steroids, antihistamines and adrenaline.

Anaphylaxis due to C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency is resistant to adrenaline, steroids and antihistamines and needs treatment with C1 esterase inhibitor concentrate or fresh frozen plasma.

Glucagon
Patients who are taking beta blockers may be resistant to the therapeutic effects of adrenaline. Animal studies and case reports suggest that glucagon can be successfully used to overcome the beta blockade, if initial adrenaline doses are unsuccessful.

Learning bite

Glucagon can be helpful in patients with anaphylaxis who are taking beta blockers