Literature analysis of Acanthopanax anaphylactic shock in China

The aims of this study are to investigate the occurrence characteristics of Acanthopanax (刺五加 cì wǔ jiā) anaphylactic shock and to provide objective evidence for the rational use of the medicine. Fifty-seven cases of Acanthopanax anaphylactic shock were collected from several professional databases in China. The statistical data of the patients were analyzed with Visual FoxPro 6.0 and Office Excel 2003 by Microsoft (Redmond, WA, USA). The male:female incidence ratio was 0.5:1. Fifty-six (98.25%) patients were older than 30 years. Thirty-nine (68.42%) patients had an unknown allergy history. Nine (15.79%) patients used Acanthopanax for unlabeled indications. In most (98.25 %) patients, Acanthopanax was used in the form of dosage injection. Anaphylactic shock occurred within 30 minutes after treatment in 52 (94.54%) patients, and all episodes occurred during the infusion process. In two (3.51%) patients, the episode occurred when they used Acanthopanax for the second time. In one (1.75%) patient, the episode occurred during the third time of use. The clinical symptoms of anaphylactic shock are diversified, but all patients presented with cardiovascular and respiratory system symptoms. Acanthopanax injections that led to anaphylactic shock were produced exclusively by four manufacturers. Four (7.02%) patients died and 49 (85.96%) patients were cured, but the status of four patients is unknown. Because an Acanthopanax injection may cause anaphylactic shock and can be fatal in severe cases, physicians and patients must pay close attention to using it rationally. Clinicians should carefully consult the allergic constitution of their patients, strictly follow the guidelines of the drug, use Acanthopanax in the oral dosage form as much as possible, and strengthen therapeutic monitoring.