Dose of EpiPen®
EpiPen® (adrenaline) auto-injectors contain one dose per injector and can therefore only be used once. They are available in two different strengths, one intended for older children and adults, and the other for use in young children.
The dosage needed is calculated according to body weight, as shown in the table below:41, 50
| Body weight | Adrenaline | |
|---|---|---|
| EpiPen®Jr (adrenaline) auto-injector |
15-30 kg (2 St 5 lbs – 4 St 9 Ibs) |
0.15 mg |
| EpiPen®(adrenaline) auto-injector |
>30 kg (>4 St 9 Ibs) |
0.3 mg |
The usual dose of adrenaline for allergic emergencies is 0.3 mg in adults and 0.15 to 0.3 mg for children. Other forms of injectable IM adrenaline are available if lower doses are needed for small children.
A repeat dose may be needed if the patient is a large adult, or if symptoms do not improve, get worse or return before reaching the emergency department. The second dose can be given after about 5 to 15 minutes if necessary. The patient should not administer more than two doses.
- 41. EpiPen Summary of Product Characteristics, MEDA Pharmaceutical Ltd, April 2011.
- 50. EpiPen Prescribing Information, MEDA Pharmaceutical Ltd, March 2011.