#59 - What is anaphylaxis, and when to use epinephrine?

Have you ever wondered if it's anaphylaxis or just a severe allergic reaction? And how do you know when to use epinephrine? Diagnosing anaphylaxis can be challenging, and in this episode, we dive into this topic with our guest, Dr. David Golden.

What we cover in this episode:

• What is anaphylaxis
• When to use an Epinephrine device?
• How to determine if it is an allergic reaction or an anaphylactic reaction?
• How safe is it to use Epinephrine?
  • Why is epinephrine used to treat anaphylaxis?
  • Does epinephrine always work to treat anaphylaxis? Why would it not work?
  • What are the side effects of Epinephrine?
  • Do you have to go to the hospital after using Epinephrine?
• How does Epinephrine work?
• Why antihistamines do not work to treat anaphylaxis or a severe asthma attack
• Other treatments that are in the pipeline for anaphylaxis?
• Epinephrine dosing - how to know the right dose for kids and adults.
• When do you need a second dose of Epinephrine?
• Carrying two epinephrine devices
• Will the next anaphylactic reaction be worse?
• Why should we encourage having stock Epinephrine in schools, on planes, etc?

Helpful links:

• More about our guest Dr. David Golden
• More about Anaphylaxis: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/
• More about Epinephrine: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/
• What if I can’t afford my epinephrine? Learn more here: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-if-i-cant-afford-my-epinephrine/