Final answer:
Epinephrine is used to counter the effects of anaphylactic shock in severe allergic reactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Epinephrine is used to counter the effects of anaphylactic shock, which can occur in severe allergic reactions. Anaphylactic shock is characterized by respiratory distress and plummeting blood pressure. Epinephrine raises blood pressure and relaxes bronchial smooth muscle, making it a lifesaving treatment for anaphylaxis. It is often administered via automatic epinephrine injectors and patients with known severe allergies are encouraged to keep these injectors with them at all times.