What is the pediatric dose for epinephrine 1:1000 IM? (for anaphylaxis)

• A. 0.01 mg/kg IM, max 0.3 mg
• B. 0.1 mg/kg IM
• C. 0.001 mg/kg IM
• D. 0.2 mg/kg IM

Answer: (A)

Dosing for pediatric anaphylaxis uses a weight-based amount of epinephrine 1:1000 given intramuscularly, 0.01 mg per kilogram of body weight, with a maximum single dose of 0.3 mg. Since the solution is 1 mg/mL, this equals 0.01 mL per kilogram. Give into the mid-outer thigh and repeat every 5–15 minutes if symptoms persist, using the same dose per administration.

For example, a child weighing 15 kg would receive 0.15 mg (0.15 mL). A 25 kg child would receive 0.25 mg (0.25 mL). If the child is heavier and the calculated dose would exceed 0.3 mg, the dose is capped at 0.3 mg (0.3 mL). This is why the correct dosing aligns with 0.01 mg/kg IM with a max of 0.3 mg per dose.