Epinephrine (Injection)

Treats a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) in an emergency situation.

Brand Name(s):

Epipen Auto-Injector, Epipen 2-Pak Auto-Injector, Epipen Jr 2-Pak Auto-Injector, Epipen Jr Auto-Injector
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

There is no reason not to use this medicine in a person who is having a severe allergic reaction, because anaphylaxis can be life-threatening.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• This medicine is prescribed for people who have a history of severe allergic reaction to insect bites, foods, drugs, or other allergens, as well as exercise-induced anaphylaxis.
• When your doctor first prescribes this medicine, you will be taught how and where to inject it in case of a severe allergic reaction.
• This medicine comes in an auto-injector syringe and needle kit that contains the correct dose of medicine your doctor has prescribed for you.
• It may be necessary to use more than one injection in the case of a persistent reaction.
• This medicine is NEVER to be injected into a vein or into the muscles of your buttocks. Inject epinephrine ONLY into the muscle on the outside of your thigh.
• Carry this medicine with you at all times for emergency use in case you have a severe allergic reaction.
• Make sure family members or other companions know how to inject the medicine in case you are unable to do it yourself during an allergic reaction.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Check your injection kits regularly to make sure the liquid has not changed color. You should not use the auto-injector if the liquid has changed color, or if the expiration date has passed.
• Store the injection kits in a dark place at room temperature, away from hot or cold temperatures.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone..

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Before using this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you are also using digoxin (Lanoxin®), quinidine, an MAO inhibitor (such as Eldepryl®, Nardil® or Parnate®), or a tricyclic antidepressant (such as Elavil®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or an overactive thyroid before you use this medicine.
• Side effects from this medicine may be more likely to occur in older adults and in children. However, the allergic reaction could be life-threatening and should be treated even at the risk of side effects.
• Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. Go to an emergency room as soon as possible, even if you feel better after using epinephrine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Chest pain
• Dizziness or weakness
• Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
• Nausea and vomiting
• Nervousness or anxiety
• Pale skin
• Shakiness
• Sweating
• Trouble breathing

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.