Which medication is commonly administered for anaphylaxis?

Epinephrine is the primary medication used for treating anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. When anaphylaxis occurs, there is a rapid and overwhelming release of histamines and other chemicals in the body, leading to symptoms such as airway swelling, difficulty breathing, lowered blood pressure, and potential cardiovascular collapse.

Epinephrine works by acting on alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors, which results in several critical effects: it causes vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) to increase blood pressure, bronchodilation (widening of the airways) to facilitate easier breathing, and it reduces swelling and hives. The swift action of epinephrine helps to counteract the severe symptoms caused by the anaphylactic reaction effectively and is often administered as an intramuscular injection.

In contrast, while antihistamines and corticosteroids may also be used in allergic reactions, they are not the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Antihistamines can help with milder allergic symptoms but do not address life-threatening airway and circulatory issues. Corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and are helpful in treating delayed reactions but do not provide immediate relief during an acute anaphylactic episode. Beta-blockers