What is the primary treatment for anaphylaxis?

The primary treatment for anaphylaxis is epinephrine. Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur rapidly. The main effect of epinephrine is that it causes blood vessels to constrict, which helps to increase blood pressure that may drop during an anaphylactic reaction. It also relaxes the muscles in the airways, allowing for easier breathing, and reduces swelling and hives.

While antihistamines and corticosteroids play a role in managing allergic reactions and can provide relief from symptoms, they do not act quickly enough to treat the severe symptoms of anaphylaxis. Antihistamines can help alleviate itching and hives but are not effective in treating the airway constriction and low blood pressure that accompany an anaphylactic reaction. Corticosteroids are useful for long-term management of allergies but are not first-line treatments for acute anaphylaxis. Oral liquids are not appropriate in this situation as they do not address the immediate needs of a person experiencing anaphylaxis. Therefore, prompt administration of epinephrine is essential and can be life-saving in these emergencies.