Final answer:
In cases of severe allergic reactions, intravenous epinephrine should be administered immediately using an automatic epinephrine injector like an EpiPenĀ®. This can prevent fatal anaphylactic shock and should be followed by immediate medical attention for further treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
When dealing with severe allergies and the risk of anaphylactic shock, timely administration of intravenous epinephrine is critical. Anaphylactic shock can be fatal within 20 to 30 minutes if untreated. Epinephrine, which raises blood pressure and relaxes bronchial smooth muscle, is life-saving in such events. Automatic epinephrine injectors, such as EpiPensĀ®, are preloaded devices designed to deliver a specific dose of epinephrine immediately upon recognition of an allergic reaction. Patients with known severe allergies should carry these with them at all times. The injector can be used promptly when exposed to an allergen such as insect stings, certain foods, or medications. After self-administering an epinephrine shot, it is imperative to seek medical attention immediately for follow-up treatment, which may involve antihistamines and corticosteroids.