Why is it important to know how do you use an EpiPen?

Why is it important to know how do you use an EpiPen?

Knowing how to use an EpiPen is important. Doctors are seeing more and more children with allergies, especially food allergies. Due to the unpredictable nature of allergic reactions, epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPens) are prescribed. EpiPens deliver medicine quickly and effectively.

How can EpiPens be safely and appropriately stored?

Adrenaline (epinephrine) injectors (e.g. EpiPen® or Anapen®)should be stored: In a cool dark place at room temperature, between 15-25°C, but not refrigerated, as temperatures below 15°C may damage the injector mechanism.

What common mistake can happen when using an EpiPen?

The most common problems were 1) not holding the auto-injector in place long enough; 2) pressing the wrong end into the thigh; and 3) using too little force to inject into the thigh. All are serious errors that can delay or prevent getting someone the epinephrine necessary to stop a reaction.

How effective are EpiPens?

When people die from anaphylaxis , it’s usually because they don’t get epinephrine on time. That might happen even if they do have a working EpiPen on hand. A study published last year found that of 102 people assigned a dummy EpiPen, only 84 percent used it correctly.

How many EpiPens should patients at risk of anaphylaxis carry Why?

In fact, it was following a death in Quebec in 1998 that a coroner issued a recommendation to prescribe 2 EpiPens or 1 Twinject to patients at risk of anaphylaxis. Such patients are advised to carry 2 doses for the injection of epinephrine (2 EpiPens or 1 Twinject) on their person at all times.

Are EpiPens safe?

Since EpiPen is administered for severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reactions, anything that prevents or delays the administration of the intended dose of epinephrine could result in a high risk to the patient, including the risk of death.

How is an EpiPen used and administered?

EpiPen® or EpiPen Jr® should only be injected into the middle of your outer thigh (upper leg), through clothing if necessary. Do not inject into your veins, buttocks, fingers, toes, hands or feet. Hold the leg of young children firmly in place before and during injection to prevent injuries.

Can an EpiPen save your life?

EpiPens are available by prescription and usually covered by insurance. While you may never need one, having one can help avoid serious anaphylaxis and even save a life.

What is an EpiPen used for?

EpiPen ® and EpiPen Jr ® (epinephrine) Auto-Injectors are indicated for the emergency treatment of anaphylactic reactions in patients who are determined to be at increased risk for anaphylaxis, including individuals with a history of anaphylactic reactions. Selection of the appropriate dosage strength is determined according to patient body weight.

When to use an EpiPen or EpiPen Jr auto-injector?

1 EpiPen and EpiPen Jr Auto-Injectors. contain epinephrine, a medicine used to… 2 Always carry your EpiPen or EpiPen. Jr Auto-Injector with you because you… 3 When you have an allergic. emergency (anaphylaxis) use the EpiPen.

Can you go to the hospital for an EpiPen?

EpiPen ® and EpiPen Jr ® Auto-Injectors are designed as emergency supportive therapy only. They are not a replacement for subsequent medical or hospital care. After administration, patients should seek medical attention immediately or go to the emergency room.

What are the active and inactive ingredients in EpiPen?

Active Ingredients: Epinephrine Inactive Ingredients: sodium chloride, sodium metabisulfite, hydrochloric acid, and water. The EpiPen and EpiPen Jr Auto-Injector contain no latex.