Epinephrine is the drug of choice for treating an anaphylactic reaction. It works to reverse the symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction and helps prevent the progression of it. It is available via prescription as an EpiPen® or EpiPen® Jr. Epinephrine Auto-Injector. It is important to administer epinephrine as soon as one detects the symptoms of anaphylaxis. Individuals who have been prescribed epinephrine must carry it with them at all times because accidents are never planned.

 

If prescribed, carry a supply of epinephrine (EpiPen®) at all times. Teach yourself and others how to use it. Practice with an expired EpiPen® by injecting it into an orange. Additionally, EpiPen®s are available in Twin Paks™ that include an EpiPen® trainer, the same device as the EpiPen® without the needle or medication. Practice using the EpiPen® until it becomes second nature.

 

 Educate others about your allergy; i.e., what you need to avoid, the symptoms of an allergic reaction, and how others can help during an allergic emergency.

 

* Wear a MedicAlert® bracelet or necklace noting your allergy.

 

 

 

1. Pull off gray safety cap

 

2. Place black tip on outer thigh (always apply to thigh)

 

 

 

3. Using a quick motion, press hard into thigh until Auto-Injector mechanism functions. Hold in place and count to 10. The EpiPen® unit should then be removed and discarded. Massage the injection area for 10 seconds.

 

How to Dispose an EpiPen®

After using an EpiPen®, throw away the gray cap. Place a penny in the bottom of the plastic tube, slip the EpiPen® into the tube, and close it. Return the used EpiPen® to your doctor for disposal.

 

 

Quick essentials about the EpiPen:

 

	EpiPens deliver epinephrine (also known as adrenalin).
	There are two strengths: - EpiPen Jr. for children up to 15 kg (33 lbs.) And EpiPen for adults. Be sure to consult your doctor when your child approaches the weight limit.
	When ordering, get the latest expiry date you can (phone around the pharmacies) and replace it when past the expiry date.
	You can reduce the cost by phoning around the pharmacies - dispensing fees vary.
	EpiPens are best delivered on the skin, but can, in certain circumstances, be given through clothing.
	There are no ill effects to giving the EpiPen in a life-threatening (allergy) situation. Consult your doctor for your specific case.
	Trainer pens with no needle are available for training yourself or others to use the EpiPen (see Subject Index)

Pushing the EpiPen against the thigh releases a spring activated plunger, pushing the concealed needle into the thigh muscle and expelling a dose of epinephrine.

Where should the EpiPen be placed for injection?
The EpiPen should simply be pushed against the fleshy outer portion of the thigh. There is no need for more precise placement. DO NOT ATTEMPT INJECTION INTO A VEIN OR INTO BUTTOCKS.

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