FACT: NO, epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Antihistamines, like Benadryl®, do not reverse the symptoms of anaphylaxis and should not be used instead of epinephrine. They can be given after epinephrine, but are mostly for comfort to relieve itching. Newer antihistamines like Reactine®, Claritin® or Aerius®, are recommended over Benadryl®, which does not work as quickly and can cause drowsiness.
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