EpiPen

The EpiPen is used for the emergency treatment of sudden life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylactic shock). The reaction is the result of the body trying to protect itself from the allergen by releasing chemicals into the blood stream.

The symptoms that signal the onset of an anaphylactic shock occur within minutes of exposure to the allergen and include:

• itching of the skin
• raised rash
• flush
• swelling of the lips, throat, tongue, hands and feet
• wheezing
• hoarseness
• shortness of breath
• nausea
• vomiting
• stomach cramps

You should always use EpiPen exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. If you are unsure, check with them. In order to use EpiPen, fit is recommended to follow these instructions:

1. Grasp EpiPen in dominant hand (the hand you use to write), with thumb on nearest blue cap and form fist around unit (orange tip down).
2. With the other hand, pull off the blue safety cap.
3. Hold the EpiPen at approximately 10cm away from the outer thigh. The orange tip should point towards the outer thigh.
4. Jab the EpiPen firmly into outer thigh at a right angle (90-degree angle) (listen for click).
5. Hold firmly against thigh for three seconds. The injection is now complete and the window on the auto-injector is obscured.
6. The EpiPen should be removed (the orange needle cover will extend to cover needle) and safely discarded.
7. Dial 999, ask for ambulance, and state anaphylaxis.

The EpiPen should only be injected into the outer thigh. It should not be injected into the buttock due to the risk of accidental injection into a vein.

Like all medicines, using the EpiPen can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. A few side effects include cardiomyopathy, irregular heartbeat palpitations, high blood pressure, severe chest pains, and reduced blood flow to limbs.

A full list of side effects can be found in the patient information leaflet. If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse.

In case of overdose or accidental injection of the adrenaline, you should always seek immediate medical help. Your blood pressure may rise sharply, and it will need to be monitored.

If you are pregnant, do not hesitate to use the EpiPen in an emergency, since you and your baby’s lives may be in danger. If you are breast-feeding, EpiPen would not be expected to have any effect on the nursing infant.

The ability to drive and use machines is unlikely to be affected by the administration of an adrenaline injection but may be affected by an anaphylactic reaction. If you are affected, do not drive.

The EpiPen works rapidly during an EpiPen emergency, typically providing relief within seconds to minutes of administration. The adrenaline quickly opens airways, reduces swelling, and helps stabilise blood pressure.

An EpiPen typically has an expiration date of approximately 12-18 months from the manufacture date. It’s crucial to regularly check the expiration date and replace the device before it expires.

Yes, medical professionals recommend carrying at least one backup EpiPen for added safety. A backup EpiPen ensures you’re prepared in case the first one malfunctions, or a second dose is required.

After administering an EpiPen, seek immediate medical attention, even if symptoms improve. The EpiPen provides temporary relief, but professional medical evaluation is crucial to ensure complete treatment of the allergic reaction.

While EpiPens are lifesaving, certain medical conditions might require careful consideration. Individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, or thyroid disorders should consult with their doctor.

Proper EpiPen training is crucial for effective use during emergencies. You, along with your family members and friends, should consider taking first aid courses and practicing with training devices.

You should store your EpiPen at room temperature between 20-25°C, avoiding extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. Keep it in its original carrying case, away from moisture and heat sources.

You need to remember to check the contents of the glass cartridge in the EpiPen from time to time to make sure the liquid is still clear and colourless. Always check the expiration date and replace the EpiPen before it expires.

EpiPen should not be thrown away via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

Yes! A EpiPen can be brought from trusted online doctor and pharmacy e-Surgery.  We are regulated by the GPhC, MHRA and CQC to provide you with a simple and legal way for you to order your medication online.

To ensure that any medication you buy online is genuine and the pharmacy is operating legally, check that the green GPhC logo is at the bottom of each page or check the pharmacies status on the GPhC website.

Any medication you buy online from e-Surgery is delivered by Royal Mail, with delivery choices of Royal Mail Tracked 48, Royal Mail Tracked 24, and Royal Mail Special Delivery by 1pm (learn more about e-Surgery delivery).

If you require any additional information about EpiPen, there are plenty of reputable sources available such as the BNF. Additionally, e-Surgery offers a free Ask-a-Pharmacist service where you can speak to a trained UK healthcare professional. We’re here to help!