Final answer:
Epinephrine is the drug used to counteract the effects of anaphylactic shock. It raises blood pressure, relaxes bronchial smooth muscles, and reduces swelling caused by the allergic reaction. Autoinjectors, like EpiPens®, are commonly used to administer epinephrine for immediate treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The drug used to counteract the effects of anaphylactic shock is epinephrine (also known as adrenaline).
Anaphylactic shock is a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. Epinephrine is used to raise blood pressure, relax bronchial smooth muscles, and reduce swelling caused by the allergic reaction. It is commonly administered through autoinjectors, like EpiPens®, which are easy to use and do not require special training.
Some individuals with severe allergies carry autoinjectors with them at all times, especially when away from easy access to hospitals.