EpiPen Adult is a single-use auto-injection device that delivers a dose of epinephrine, or adrenaline, to reduce or reverse the symptoms of anaphylaxis.

This product delivers a single dose of 0.3 mg/300 mcg epinephrine, intended for use in patients weighing 30 kilograms (66 pounds) or more. Do not buy EpiPen Adult for patients weighing under 30 kilograms (66 pounds). EpiPen Junior, which delivers a smaller dose of 0.15 mg/150 mcg, will significantly reduce the risk of dangerous side effects. Safety and effectiveness in patients under 15 kilograms (33 pounds) is unknown.

Stopping Anaphylaxis with Epinephrine

Anaphylaxis refers to a severe allergic reaction in response to exposure to an allergen, such as peanuts or bee venom. Symptoms often develop within seconds or minutes of exposure; not enough time to seek medical attention. EpiPen can stop symptoms nearly as quickly as they start.

Epinephrine is the standard treatment for anaphylaxis in any situation. While always preferable to doing nothing when life-threatening symptoms of anaphylaxis are present, keep in mind that epinephrine is a powerful drug which can cause serious symptoms of its own, particularly in patients with certain pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and Parkinson's disease.

EpiPen should be administered as soon as possible after dangerous symptoms of anaphylaxis begin, including:

• Difficulty breathing
• Severe swelling of lips, tongue or throat
• Weak or erratic pulse
• Cardiac arrest
• Confusion or unconsciousness
• Dramatic drop in blood pressure
• Severe abdominal pain or incontinence

Medical attention should always be sought after using EpiPen, even if symptoms have gone away, to ensure there are no lingering problems from either anaphylaxis or epinephrine use, particularly in patients with preexisting conditions.

  Patients or caregivers are strongly advised to familiarize themselves with EpiPen prior to an emergency. The product is not difficult to use, but might not be self-explanatory in a frantic situation:

• Pull the safety release straight out of the top of the pen.
• Swing the base of the pen firmly into the upper thigh. There will be an audible click to indicate the needle has extended.
• Hold the device in place for 10 seconds.
• After removing the pen, massage the injection site for another 10 seconds.
• If symptoms persist or worsen after 5 to 15 minutes, a second dose should be given.

EpiPen may safely be administered through clothing.
 
Do not administer to other parts of the body or directly into veins. Seek emergency medical attention if this happens.

Often there will be some medication left in the pen after use. It does not mean a full dose was not given. Do not attempt to reuse the pen; it will no longer function after the first use.

EpiPen and Asthma

Though less common, some patients buy EpiPen Adult for emergency treatment of severe asthma attacks, particularly since the manufacture of aerosolized epinephrine has been banned in some countries. Administration is the same when the product is used for asthma.

With the comparatively high dosage of epinephrine, and resulting increased risk of serious side effects, EpiPen should not be regularly used as a replacement for a rescue inhaler.

Stock Up on EpiPen Adult at Kiwi Drug

If you're maintaining a supply of EpiPen, be sure to periodically check that the medication is not expired or discolored. Always have at least two functional pens on hand in case a second dose is needed.

While Kiwi Drug does not require a prescription to buy EpiPen Adult, regulations may be different in some parts of the world. Clients are responsible for complying with local laws.