Next best is to be prepared for an attack. Several emergency treatment kits are available by prescription and should always be carried by people who know they are prone to anaphylaxis. All the kits contain epinephrine, which stops the action of the mediators, preloaded in the injecting device. One type contains a notched syringe to ensure the correct dose is given. Other kits contain a spring-loaded injector that automatically injects a predetermined dose of the drug when it is pressed against the thigh.
Some kits also contain a tourniquet and an antihistamine.
But an antihistamine is not an effective emergency treatment. It is included in the kit to reduce symptoms that may continue after treatment with epinephrine. Anaphylaxis must be treated immediately with epinephrine. The tourniquet is for use in the case of an insect sting on an arm or leg. First the stinger should be flicked.