The approach to treating anaphylaxis varies depending on the patient's ability to describe their condition, but if the patient is unconscious or not fully aware, recognizing the symptoms becomes critical. The treatment plan for anaphylaxis includes:

Medications

The main medications used to treat an anaphylactic reaction are:

Adrenaline (Epinephrine): This is the primary treatment for anaphylaxis. It is essential for managing life-threatening reactions by halting their progression and stabilizing the patient.
Antihistamines: These medications, such as diphenhydramine or cetirizine, help reduce inflammation in the airways and alleviate symptoms like itching and hives.
Beta Antagonists: These are used to protect the airways and relieve respiratory symptoms associated with anaphylaxis.
Glucocorticoids: Steroids, such as glucocorticoids, are often administered to lessen the severity of the reaction and decrease the likelihood of a recurrence.

For Hospitalized Patients

Patients admitted to the hospital and stabilized may be treated with:

Activated Charcoal: Commonly used for poisoning, activated charcoal can also be effective after peanut exposure. When consumed soon after accidental exposure, it prevents further absorption of the allergens and can mitigate the allergic response.
Vasopressors: Medications like norepinephrine or vasopressin help manage persistent low blood pressure in patients with anaphylaxis.
Glucagon: This is used to treat anaphylaxis that does not respond to epinephrine, and it can also aid in moving food boluses through the body.
Intravenous Fluids: IV fluids are administered to maintain stable blood circulation.

In an Emergency Situation

If you are with someone experiencing an allergic reaction with signs of anaphylaxis, follow these steps:

Immediately call the local emergency medical number.
Check if the person has an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, etc.) and assist them in injecting it into the thigh.
Help the person lie down flat and remain still.
Loosen tight clothing and cover the individual with a blanket.
If vomiting or bleeding occurs from the mouth, turn the person on their side to prevent choking.
Place the person in the Trendelenburg position—lying flat on their back with their legs raised—to improve blood flow to the heart.
If the person is not breathing, coughing, or moving, initiate CPR by performing chest compressions at a rate of 100 per minute.