Epinephrine is the drug of choice to treat anaphylaxis. Overuse of antihistamines in anaphylaxis is associated with increased morbidity. H1 antagonists serve as second-line treatment for cutaneous non-life-threatening symptoms such as urticaria but should not be used in place of epinephrine. They do not alleviate or prevent cardiovascular or respiratory symptoms of anaphylaxis and can delay the administration of epinephrine, increasing the risk of potential consequences such as disability or fatality. Prompt use of epinephrine is important for the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis.
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