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July 11, 2017 at 5:50 pm
(This post was last modified: July 16, 2017 at 3:02 pm by Losty.)
(July 11, 2017 at 1:33 pm)Shell B Wrote: Sure, an epi pen is used to treat anaphylaxis, but we're talking about a potential alternative for Benadryl, assuming an allergy to this antihistamine. Alternatives to Benadryl are many.
Benadryl is not a substitute for epinephrine. Epinephrine is not even an antihistamine. One is used to block histamines. One is used to save your life if you're in shock. It doesn't treat allergies. It treats shock. (Source: I have a bee allergy. Tibby has everything allergies. We've been advised what to do in the event of anaphylaxis. The answer is 100% epinephrine every time. In fact, they say potential side effects are worth it.) Long story short, she has options when it comes to antihistamines. There are few options when it comes to anaphylaxis. Epi pens are the main treatment. That said, she clearly didn't go into shock, so she shouldn't be too worried about finding an option for it.
You should really re-read this thread/my posts, Shell B. I never stated that Benedryl is a substitute for epinephrine, as I am well aware that it is not.
I was speaking to it's potential as an important/useful adjunct in addressing the symptoms of severe allergic reactions. That was the only reason I suggested that Rhonda MAY want to seek further clarification as to whether she's actually allergic to it.
Once she conveyed that the doctor has already deemed in inappropriate for her to use, I supposed that just epinephrine (as in, epinephrine alone) would be the medication utilized to treat/address a severe allergic/anapylactic reaction in the short term, IF such a situation presented itself in the future. Then, I wondered if there is any other antihistamine POTENT enough to possibly slow the escalation of acute allergic/anaphylactic symptoms other than diphenhydramine, because I know of none.
Diphenhydramine can most certainly buy time for those who are experiencing the symptoms severe allergic reactions for the first time, and for those who can't afford or simply don't have an auto-injector on them as they await medical care/transport; Particulary if it's taken at early onset, sublingually. And, despite the fact that the medical community rightfully discourages individuals from self-providing insufficient/incomplete treatments at home, Benedryl is indeed, still utilized in the management of such conditions by EMS workers and clinicians.
If still take issue with what I've posted, again, I would respectfully ask that you re-read this thread in it's entirety, in order to ensure that you have a firm grasp on what was actually stated before you choose to respond to my posts again.
