In suspected anaphylaxis, what immediate treatment is commonly given?

• A. Intravenous epinephrine
• B. Intramuscular epinephrine
• C. Inhaled bronchodilators
• D. Oral antihistamines

Answer: (B)

Rapid reversal of airway edema, bronchospasm, and circulatory collapse is required in suspected anaphylaxis. Epinephrine works on multiple fronts: it constricts blood vessels to reduce swelling and raise blood pressure (alpha-adrenergic effect), increases heart output (beta-1), and relaxes airway smooth muscle to relieve bronchospasm (beta-2). Administering it intramuscularly into the mid-outer thigh provides the fastest, reliable absorption with lower risk than IV dosing outside a controlled setting. This makes intramuscular epinephrine the immediate treatment of choice. While inhaled bronchodilators can help with breathing, and antihistamines (especially oral) may help later, they do not reverse the life-threatening airway and circulation problems quickly enough.