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Every individual with a diagnosis of food allergy should carry an epinephrine auto-injector for emergency use, have a written plan for when to use it, and fully understand when to seek emergency care. When severe reactions do happen, it is important to give injectable epinephrine immediately and to call 911 for emergency medical help. Anti-histamines are used for more mild symptoms. Giving an anti-histamine does not guarantee that you will not need to use injectable epinephrine if the reaction gets worse.
Epinephrine (adrenaline) is the only medication that reverses the symptoms of anaphylaxis. People at risk should wear a MedicAlert bracelet and always carry self-injectable epinephrine. Available by prescription, epinephrine must be given as soon as possible to hold off the worsening of symptoms until getting to an emergency room for more care. Delay in getting epinephrine has been associated with fatalities.