Epipen

Description

Epipen/ Epinephrine Adult / Epinephrine Child / Epinephrine Child (generic name: adrenalin/epinephrine) is used to treat severe allergic reactions quickly. It helps with severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) caused by insect stings, food, drugs, and other allergens.

People at risk of anaphylaxis, like those with a history of severe allergic reactions, should carry EpiPen with them at all times. It works by tightening blood vessels and relaxing the airways to improve breathing during an allergic reaction. EpiPen is given as an injection and works fast. Doctors prescribe EpiPen to those at risk of serious allergic reactions and recommend carrying it for emergencies.

Dosage

A doctor will determine the treatment regime and provide specific instructions for using the EpiPen. Some general advice is:

• This medication is given by injecting it into the muscle of the thigh only.
• Before using, make sure the solution in the auto-injector is clear and colorless. If it looks pinkish or brown, cloudy, or has particles, get a new auto-injector.
• Do not insert the medication into veins. Injecting too much or into a vein by accident can cause bleeding in the brain from a sudden spike in blood pressure. Quick-acting drugs that widen blood vessels can help counter the strong effects of the medication if this happens by mistake.
• Avoid injecting into the buttocks. It may not effectively treat a severe allergic reaction. Also, injecting into the buttocks has been linked to infections from Clostridium bacteria (gas gangrene).
• Steer clear of injecting into fingers, hands, or feet. Since the medication narrows blood vessels, an accidental injection in these areas could cut off blood flow, leading to tissue damage.
• Hold the leg firmly while injecting. Cuts, bent needles, and needles getting stuck have been reported when Epipens were injected into the thighs of young children who squirmed or kicked during the injection. Remember to keep the needle in place for 3 seconds to complete the process.

Storage

To keep it safe from light, epinephrine needs to be stored in the provided carrier tube. Keep it below 25°C/77°F, but don’t put it in the fridge. For more advice on storing supplements and meds correctly, check out this article – Conquer the Chaos: Top Tips for Safe and Organized Medicine Storage.

FAQ

What happens if you inject an EpiPen without needing it?

As per the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, using epinephrine is better than the risk if the dose isn’t needed. Giving an extra dose might raise heart rate and blood pressure, but epinephrine breaks down fast, so the effects won’t stick around long.

How painful is an EpiPen?

The concealed needle is extremely thin, which typically results in an almost painless injection.

Can you hit a vein with an EpiPen?

Do not inject this medication into a vein, the muscle of the buttocks, or the fingers, toes, hands, or feet. Doing so could raise the risk of experiencing severe side effects.