All the following drugs are indicated in an anaphylactic reaction, EXCEPT:

Appeared in: AIIMS Delhi NO-2016

Explanation

Salicylates are a type of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID).
NSAIDs are not used to treat anaphylaxis; in fact, they are known to be potential triggers of anaphylactic or similar hypersensitivity reactions in susceptible individuals.
Their mechanism of action (inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis) has no therapeutic role in reversing the bronchospasm or hypotension of anaphylaxis.
Therefore, administering a salicylate during an anaphylactic reaction would be inappropriate and potentially harmful.

Option B: Adrenaline (epinephrine) is the single most important, first-line, life-saving drug for treating anaphylaxis.
Option C: Corticosteroids are an important second-line or adjunctive therapy in the management of anaphylaxis.
Option D: This is a plausible but less precise option. Adrenaline itself is considered a 'physiological antidote' because it directly counteracts the effects of the chemical mediators released during anaphylaxis.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pharmacological management of anaphylaxis and identification of contraindicated medications as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A nurse's primary role in anaphylaxis is rapid recognition of symptoms (e.g., respiratory distress, hypotension, urticaria) and immediate intervention.
The priority nursing action is to administer intramuscular adrenaline as prescribed, often in the mid-anterolateral thigh for fastest absorption.
Nurses must also be prepared to maintain the patient's airway, administer oxygen, and establish IV access for fluids and secondary medications.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question: It asks to find the drug that is NOT used for anaphylaxis.
The keyword 'EXCEPT' signals a negative question format. This means three of the options are treatments for anaphylaxis, and one is not.
Evaluate each option's role in managing an allergic reaction.
Recall or look up the standard treatment protocol for anaphylaxis. Adrenaline is first-line. Corticosteroids and antihistamines are second-line.
Consider the role of Salicylate. It's an NSAID, which is known to sometimes cause, not treat, allergic reactions.
The option that is not part of the treatment protocol (and is in fact contraindicated) is the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Pharmacological management of anaphylaxis and identification of contraindicated medications.
Stem keywords: drugs, indicated, anaphylactic reaction
Lead-in keywords: EXCEPT
Negative lead-in flag: The question asks for the drug that is NOT used in treating an anaphylactic reaction.

Q4vxq_BmXbqxZVo58PE5cj

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 1452-1454

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 106-108

E6 Pharmacology Katzung 16e p. 1548-1550

Practise the full AIIMS Delhi NO-2016

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.