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Anaphylaxis

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Anaphylactic reaction; Anaphylactic shock; Shock - anaphylactic

Prevention:

Avoid known allergens. Any person experiencing an allergic reaction should be monitored, although monitoring may be done at home in mild cases.

Occasionally, people who have a history of drug allergies may safely be given the offending medication after pretreatment with corticosteroids (prednisone) and antihistamines (diphenhydramine).

People who have a history of allergy to insect bites/stings should be instructed to carry (and use) an emergency kit consisting of injectable epinephrine and chewable antihistamine. They should also wear a Medic-Alert or similar bracelet/necklace stating their allergy.

References:

The diagnosis and management of anaphylaxis: an updated practice parameter. J Allergy Clin Immunol . 2005 Mar;115(3 Suppl):S483-523.

• Review Date: 5/3/2006
• Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Assistant Professor, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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