Treatment for Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. Adrenaline (epinephrine) is the first and most important treatment, and delays can be fatal. Read more about the treatment for anaphylaxis below.
Step 1: Administer Adrenaline Immediately
- Use an adrenaline auto-injector (e.g. EpiPen) if available
- Inject into the outer thigh, through clothing if needed
- Doctors can repeat the dose every 5–15 minutes if symptoms persist
In South Africa, EpiPens are available through private healthcare but may not be widely stocked in public hospitals. Doctors may instead administer intramuscular adrenaline manually.
Step 2: Call Emergency Services
- Dial 112 (from a mobile) or 10177 for ambulance assistance
- Explain that it is a suspected anaphylactic reaction
Step 3: Positioning
- Lay the person flat and raise their legs (unless they are struggling to breathe, in which case they may sit up slightly)
- Do not let them stand or walk — this can worsen shock
Step 4: Administer Additional Treatments (in hospital)
- Oxygen to support breathing
- IV fluids to support blood pressure
- Antihistamines and corticosteroids – for symptom control (but not life-saving)
- Beta-agonists (e.g. salbutamol) – for wheezing or bronchospasm
Observation
Doctors should observe patients for at least 4–6 hours after an anaphylactic reaction in case of biphasic reactions (a second wave of symptoms after initial recovery).
After recovery, doctors should prescribe the following to patients:
- An adrenaline auto-injector (if available)
- An emergency action plan
- Referral to an allergist for follow-up
Let’s now explore the long-term complications and how to prevent future episodes.
👉 [Next: Complications of Anaphylaxis]
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