A naphylaxis is potentially fatal but can be prevented if the trigger is identifi ed and avoided, and death can be avoided if episodes are treated promptly. A consensus defi nition of anaphylaxis has been diffi cult to achieve, with slight variations among international guidelines. The World Allergy Organization classifi es anaphylaxis as immunologic, nonimmunologic, or idiopathic. 1 The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network highlight clinical symptoms and criteria. 2 The International Consensus on Food Allergy describes reactions as being immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated, cell-mediated, or a combination of the 2 mechanisms. 3 Despite the subtle differences in these definitions, all 3 international organizations have a common recommendation for anaphylaxis: once it is diagnosed, epinephrine is the treatment of choice. ■ EPINEPHRINE IS THE TREATMENT OF CHOICE FOR ANAPHYLAXIS Anaphylaxis commonly results from exposure to foods, medications, and Hymenoptera venom. 4 Avoiding triggers is key in preventing anaphylaxis but is not always possible. Although epinephrine is the cornerstone of the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis, many patients instead receive antihistamines and corticosteroids as initial therapy. Some take these medications on their own, and some receive them in emergency departments and outpatient clinics. 5 Diphenhydramine, a histamine 1 receptor antagonist, is often used as a fi rst-line medication. But diphenhydramine has a slow onset of action, taking 80 minutes after an oral dose REVIEW Dr. Song has disclosed membership on advisory committees or review panels for Allergopharma, and teaching and speaking for Novartis and Teva. Dr. Lieberman has disclosed consulting for Kaléo.