How to use EpiPen®

It is important to familiarise yourself with how to use the EpiPen® (adrenaline) auto-injector so that you can show your patients. Various studies have shown that many patients (or parents of patients) do not use their pen properly, or in some cases at all, because they have not had sufficient training.52,54

The EpiPen® (adrenaline) auto-injector has a simple design and mechanism and fulfils the key characteristics of an ‘ideal’ auto-injector:55

  • delivers adrenaline within the correct timeframe
  • delivers the correct dose of adrenaline
  • is robust and able to withstand ‘real-life’ use
  • is easy, convenient and safe to use
  • has an inspection window to check integrity of content

Its unique swing-action process, offers reliable adrenaline delivery during the stress of an anaphylactic episode. The procedure is shown below:

First sit as comfortably
as you can.

Remove grey safety
release cap.

Swing and firmly jab black tip
of the EpiPen® (adrenaline)
auto-injector against outer thigh
at 90º until it clicks.

Hold in place for 10 seconds.

Remove and massage injection
site for 10 seconds

Dial 999, ask for ambulance and state 'anaphylaxis'.

  1. 52 - Allen CW et al. Med J Austral 2007;187(9):542.
  2. 54 - Diwakar L et al. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol 2010;20(5):446-53.
  3. 55 - Frew AJ. Allergy 2011;66:15-24.

MEDA Skyway House, Parsonage Road, Takeley, Bishop’s Stortford CM22 6PU – T +44 (0)845 460 0000 | F +44 (0)845 460 0002 – Email: info@medapharma.co.uk

UK/EPI/11/0059 October 2011