EpiPen

Description

What is an EpiPen?

EpiPen is an auto-injector that is used as a life-saving emergency treatment. They are administered via intramuscular injection into the thigh. It contains the medicine adrenaline (also known as epinephrine). Adrenaline is used to reverse the symptoms of allergic reactions in the body.

How does the EpiPen work?

When the body is suffering from severe allergic reactions, some chemicals are released during the process. In reaction to this, the body releases adrenaline to reduce the allergic response. EpiPen, which also contains adrenaline, assists the body in fighting these reactions. It works by improving the functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. It makes the blood vessels smaller, improves breathing, and reduces swelling in the body.

How to use an EpiPen?

It is very important to know the correct usage and administration of an EpiPen for a person who is suffering from anaphylaxis. The single dose of EpiPen contains 0.3mg of adrenaline. Sometimes a person may need another dose of EpiPen, which should be given 5-15 minutes after the first dose to reverse the effects of anaphylaxis. Therefore, it is recommended that a person who is suffering from severe allergic reactions should carry 2 doses of EpiPen.

You must follow your doctor’s instructions while using an EpiPen. But here are some general tips that need to be followed:

• Hold the EpiPen injector in your one hand with the orange tip facing down.
• Pull off the blue safety cap with your other hand.
• Hold the EpiPen at a distance of 10cm from the outer thigh, and the orange tip pointing towards the thigh. It is not necessary to remove the clothes to inject the EpiPen.
• Inject the EpiPen into the thigh in an upright position, after the clicking sound, wait for 3 seconds.
• Do not reuse the injector and discard it properly.
• Seek immediate medical advice after taking an EpiPen injector.

Who can use an EpiPen?

EpiPen should only be used on people suffering from very severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). This can only be used in case of an emergency.

Who should avoid using the EpiPen?

Although EpiPen is a life-saving medicine, it should not be used by people who:

• Have heart problems
• Have high blood pressure
• Have an overactive thyroid
• Suffering from kidney disease
• Breastfeeding or pregnant
• Are elderly or weigh less than 25 kg
• However bearing this in mind, if in doubt it is better to administer the Epipen as non-treatment can be life-threatening in itself

Possible Side Effects

EpiPen users may observe some side effects, which may include:

• High blood pressure
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating
• Breathing problems
• Weakness
• Nervousness and anxiety

If you experience any of the side effects, then seek medical advice immediately.