How to use your EpiPen®
Auto-Injector
You and a family member or carer should review instructions provided with the EpiPen® (adrenaline) Auto-Injector each time you are dispensed a new device in case there are changes. Instructions may differ from one auto-injector to another.
Register any new device for an expiry alert
EpiPen® or EpiPen® Jr (adrenaline) Auto-Injector.® are adrenaline auto-injectors and contain one single dose per injector. They are available in two different doses, one intended for older children and adults, and the other for use in young children.
Stay with other people if possible. There is no need to undress, because the injector works through clothing. However, when possible, lift the edge of a skirt or lower trousers to avoid hitting a buckle, zipper, or contents of your pocket
- Hold the injector in your dominant hand with the grey safety cap nearest your thumb. The black end contains the needle and should be facing down. Remove safety cap Fig 1
- From a distance of about 10 cm swing the EpiPen® (adrenaline) Auto-Injector towards the outer thigh and jab black end into thigh, through clothing if necessary. See fig 2
- Hold in place for 10 seconds to allow all the medicine to be injected
- Remove the pen and massage the injected area for 10 seconds
- Call 999 and state ANAPHYLAXIS. Do not drive yourself to hospital as allergic reactions sometimes come back
- Hand the used EpiPen® (adrenaline) Auto-Injector to the ambulance or hospital staff for safe disposal