Emergency

Anaphylaxis Medications

Emergency & Critical Care

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Examples

epinephrinediphenhydraminealbuterolmethylprednisolonefamotidine

Prefix / Suffix: No consistent suffix

Physiology

Anaphylaxis is a rapid systemic allergic reaction that causes airway swelling, bronchospasm, vasodilation, and capillary leak. Epinephrine is the priority medication because it treats airway, breathing, and circulation problems.

Mechanism of Action

Epinephrine stimulates alpha and beta receptors to vasoconstrict, bronchodilate, and support cardiac output. Antihistamines and steroids are adjuncts, not first-line lifesaving treatment.

Indications

  • Anaphylaxis from food, medication, venom, latex, or unknown cause
  • Severe allergic reaction with airway, breathing, or circulation involvement
  • Bronchospasm associated with allergic reaction

Side Effects / Adverse Effects

  • Tachycardia and palpitations
  • Tremor and anxiety
  • Hypertension
  • Arrhythmias in high-risk patients
  • Sedation with diphenhydramine

Contraindications

  • No absolute contraindication to epinephrine in anaphylaxis
  • Use caution but do not delay epinephrine in cardiac disease
  • Medication-specific allergy

Nursing Considerations

  • Give IM epinephrine promptly in the mid-outer thigh for anaphylaxis
  • Call for emergency help and support airway and oxygenation
  • Monitor blood pressure, pulse, respiratory status, and symptom recurrence
  • Prepare for repeat epinephrine dosing if symptoms persist per protocol
  • Teach patients with severe allergy how and when to use an autoinjector

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Disclaimer: PharmPal Nurse is for education only and is not medical advice. Do not use it to diagnose, treat, prescribe, or make patient-care decisions; always verify with current drug references, your instructor, facility policy, and a licensed provider. In emergencies, call local emergency services.