Epipen etc. (Epinephrine) is the drug of choice for treating an anaphylactic reaction. Epinephrine (also known as the hormone “adrenaline”) constricts blood vessels in the digestive tract and skin and raises blood pressure. It also widens the air passages to make breathing easier.

Anaphylaxis is a sudden, severe, potentially fatal, systemic allergic reaction that can involve various areas of the body (such as the skin, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and cardiovascular system). Symptoms typically occur within minutes to two hours after contact with the allergy-causing substance. An anaphylactic reaction may begin with a tingling sensation, itching, or metallic taste in the mouth. Other symptoms can include hives, a sensation of warmth, asthma symptoms, swelling of the mouth and throat area, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, cramping, a drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. These symptoms may begin in as little as five to 15 minutes to up to two hours after exposure to the allergen, but life-threatening reactions may progress over hours.