Which agent is listed as the sedative of choice for anaphylactic shock?

• A. Diphenhydramine
• B. Fentanyl
• C. Epinephrine
• D. Propofol

Answer: (B)

In anaphylactic shock, the priority treatment is epinephrine because it rapidly reverses airway edema, bronchospasm, and hypotension by stimulating alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors, improving breathing and circulation. None of the other options provide that swift, comprehensive benefit. Diphenhydramine can help with histamine-related symptoms but does not reverse shock or airway obstruction and is only adjunctive. Fentanyl is an opioid that can cause histamine release and lower blood pressure, potentially worsening shock. Propofol is a sedative that drops blood pressure and would be dangerous during anaphylaxis. So the agent that addresses the life-threatening pathophysiology first is epinephrine.