We recently had a call with a 3 year old being exposed to pepper/bear spray. Although our Pt. was not experiencing any respiratory Sx. During and after the call my partner and I were discussing Epinephrine under anaphalaxis as a possible Tx. If the Pt. airway became a serious concern. What are some thoughts from SWORB. 

Capsaicin, the active agent in repellant sprays can cause bronchoconstriction by causing inflammation of the mucous membranes. If a patient presents  with bronchoconstriction, regardless of the cause,  you may treat the patient per the Bronchoconstriction Medical Directive. However, please consider that anaphylaxis and a reaction to capsaicin exposure (i.e. an expected reaction to bear-spray exposure) are generally very different from a pathophysiologic perspective and therefore require different treatment approaches. Unless the patient has other signs of anaphylaxis, we would not suggest treating solely under the Moderate to Severe Allergic Reaction Medical Directive, with epinephrine. If you are unsure of which Medical Directive to apply to a unique patient case,  this would be an excellent time to consult a BHP via patch. 

Airway/Breathing,Bronchoconstriction

Airway Irritant, Bear Spray, Bronchoconstriction, Pepper spray

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