An Epipen contains a substance used to treat anaphylaxis. What is it?

• A. Adrenaline (epinephrine).
• B. Antihistamine.
• C. Steroid.
• D. Salbutamol.

Answer: (A)

Adrenaline (epinephrine) is the substance in an Epipen and is used to treat anaphylaxis. It works quickly to reverse the life-threatening features of a severe allergic reaction: it constricts blood vessels to raise blood pressure and reduce swelling in the airway, and it relaxes the smooth muscle in the airways to improve breathing. This combination tackles the main dangers of anaphylaxis fast, which is why an Epipen is the first-line emergency treatment.

Antihistamines and steroids don’t reverse these acute problems quickly enough or address the blood pressure collapse and airway swelling as effectively. Antihistamines mainly help symptoms like itching or rash, and steroids take longer to have an effect. Salbutamol can help with bronchospasm, but it doesn’t address the dangerous vascular components and airway edema as adrenaline does. In anaphylaxis, adrenaline is the essential, immediate intervention, often followed by urgent medical help.