Epipen Adult

EpiPen Adult is a prescription epinephrine auto-injector used for emergency treatment of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in adults and children who weigh 66 pounds (30 kg) or more. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that can develop within minutes and may be life-threatening if not treated immediately. The EpiPen (epinephrine) auto-injector is designed for fast emergency use when symptoms begin.

EpiPen Adult may be prescribed if you have:

• A known severe food allergy, such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, dairy, or latex.
• Serious insect sting allergies, including bees, wasps, or hornets.
• Medication allergies, such as to antibiotics or pain medications.
• A medical history of anaphylactic reactions.
• Exercise-induced anaphylaxis or reactions with no known cause (idiopathic anaphylaxis).

EpiPen Jr. and EpiPen Adult are epinephrine injections used for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis. The main difference between “EpiPen Jr. vs. EpiPen Adult” is the epinephrine dose and patient weight.

• EpiPen Adult (0.3 mg) is for people who weigh 66 pounds (30 kg) or more.
• EpiPen Jr (0.15 mg) is for children who weigh 33 to 65 pounds (15–30 kg).

Using the correct dose is important because too little epinephrine may not stop anaphylaxis, while too much may increase side effects.

Using an epinephrine auto-injector quickly and the right way can be lifesaving during an allergic emergency. Here are some important steps to follow, as mentioned in the FDA prescribing information when using an EpiPen for anaphylaxis.

• Each EpiPen package includes a trainer device that contains no medication and no needle. It is designed only for practice, so patients and caregivers can learn proper injection technique before an emergency occurs.
• For real use, remove the auto-injector from its carrier tube.
• Pull off the blue safety cap.
• Press the orange tip firmly and inject the medicine intramuscularly into the front/side thigh (anterolateral thigh) at a 90-degree angle.
• Hold the device in place for 3 seconds to deliver the medication.
• Remove the device and massage the injected area.
• Do not put your hand or fingers over the orange tip, as this is where the needle comes out.
• Epinephrine injection can be given through clothing if needed.
• Do not inject into the buttocks, hands, veins, or feet.
• Once done, discard the injector and carrier tube in an FDA-approved sharps container.

Most EpiPen Adult 0.3 mg side effects are caused by epinephrine’s stimulant effects and are usually temporary. Common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Paleness
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Nausea or vomiting
• Breathing problems
• Weakness
• Anxiety or nervousness

EpiPen Adult serious side effects are rare, but can include heart rhythm problems, especially in people with existing heart disease. This is not a complete list of epinephrine side effects. If you notice any unusual reaction after using this auto-injection, tell your doctor immediately or report them to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088.

They are related, but not the same thing. Epinephrine is a drug that is also known as adrenaline. It can be given manually or via an auto-injector. Meanwhile, EpiPen is a brand-name delivery device that quickly and safely delivers epinephrine through an auto-injector. The device delivers a pre-measured epinephrine dose for anaphylaxis. Other FDA-approved epinephrine auto-injectors, such as Auvi-Q, Adrenaclick, and Symjepi, exist, but EpiPen remains one of the most recognized devices in the U.S.

EpiPen Adult 0.3 mg delivers a pre-measured epinephrine dose via an auto-injector. Also known as adrenaline, epinephrine rapidly reverses life-threatening allergic symptoms when used as prescribed. This hormone works by:

• Relaxing airway muscles to improve breathing.
• Tightening blood vessels to raise severely low blood pressure.
• Reducing swelling in the face, lips, and throat.
• Slowing the progression of the allergic reaction.

The EpiPen dose may vary between adults and children based on their body weight. Here is the average dosing schedule:

EpiPen (Epinephrine) Dose for Anaphylaxis

• 66 lbs (30 kg) or more: EpiPen Adult 0.3 mg (1 auto-injector).
• 33–66 lbs (15–30 kg): EpiPen Jr. 0.15 mg (1 auto-injector).
• Less than 33 lbs (15 kg): Not approved for EpiPen or EpiPen Jr.

Individuals using EpiPen for anaphylaxis should be aware of the following safety information:

• Accidental injection risk: Epinephrine strongly narrows blood vessels. Accidental injection into the fingers, hand, or feet can reduce blood flow to that area. Get medical help right away in such cases.
• Do not inject into a vein: Injecting the medicine into a vein can cause serious cardiovascular effects. Seek medical attention if this occurs.
• Sulfite warning: Certain epinephrine products contain sodium metabisulfite. While rare, it may cause allergic reactions in hypersensitive people. However, it is appropriate to use it in emergency situations.
• Delayed use: Epinephrine is the most effective treatment for severe allergic reactions and should not be delayed.
• Certain medications: Medicines like digitalis, diuretics, or anti-arrhythmia drugs may increase the chances of heart-related side effects in some patients. People with heart disease, irregular heart rhythms, high blood pressure, or coronary artery disease should use epinephrine carefully. However, do not avoid it in emergency situations involving anaphylaxis.

Epinephrine can be lifesaving, but it must be used correctly and with proper safety precautions.

• Do not inject EpiPen Adult 0.3 mg into the buttock. If accidental injection happens, go to the nearest emergency room for further evaluation.
• Use the auto-injector for anaphylaxis at the first sign of a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:
  • Wheezing
  • Hoarseness
  • Severe itching
  • Trouble breathing
  • Weak pulse
  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Hives
  • Skin redness, rash, or swelling
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Stomach pain
  • Dizziness or fainting
• Always carry your EpiPen with you.
• After using the auto-injector, seek emergency care or call 911.
• If your symptoms persist or recur, use a second dose.
• Do not take more than two doses. If a third dose is needed, visit your doctor, as it should be administered only by medical professionals.
• Before using EpiPen for anaphylaxis, tell your medical provider if you have:
  • Asthma
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Heart issues
  • High blood pressure
  • History of depression
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Diabetes
  • Thyroid disorders

Some medications may interact with epinephrine. You should not take EpiPen Adult with the following drugs unless your doctor advises otherwise:

• Tricyclic Antidepressants, such as Amitriptyline and Clomipramine
• Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) Inhibitors, like Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, and Tranylcypromine
• Antiarrhythmic Drugs, including Amiodarone, Quinidine, and Flecainide
• Beta-Blockers, such as Atenolol, Propranolol, and Metoprolol
• Cardiac Glycosides, such as Digoxin

There is no substitute for epinephrine in anaphylaxis. EpiPen (epinephrine auto-injector) remains the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Other treatments may support symptom relief but must never replace epinephrine. Antihistamines or asthma inhalers may help relieve some symptoms, but they do not stop a life-threatening allergic reaction and must never be used instead of epinephrine.

Auto Injectors

• Auvi-Q
• Adrenaclick

Pre-filled Syringes

• Symjepi

Other Epinephrine Delivery Device

• Neffy (nasal spray)

Second-Line Treatments (Used with Epinephrine)

• Antihistamines (H1/H2 blockers):
  • Benadryl
  • Zyrtec
  • Claritin
  • Pepcid
• Corticosteroids:
  • Prednisone

EpiPen and EpiPen Jr. are available as brand-name products, and their cost can be high for many patients. There are several ways that may reduce out-of-pocket expenses, depending on insurance status and eligibility. If you have commercial health insurance, a manufacturer copay savings card may save up to $300 per brand-name EpiPen prescription and up to $25 off on the generic version. Prices may vary by pharmacy and insurance coverage.

For people who are uninsured or underinsured, patient assistance programs may be available. Another option is using a pharmacy discount coupon, which can sometimes lower the retail price even without insurance. Discount prices vary by provider and pharmacy.

Savings with Polar Bear Meds is another option. Using our EpiPen coupon, you can buy an EpiPen online for as little as $134.99 for 1 auto-injector. Prices may change over time and can vary by location and availability. Patients should confirm current pricing and product details before purchasing.

https://www.epipen.com/

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/019430s053lbl.pdf