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EpiPen and EpiPenJr (epinephrine) are auto-injector for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions, including those that are life-threatening (anaphylaxis), in adults. The EpiPen is intended to automatically inject a dose of epinephrine into a person’s thigh to stop an allergic reaction. Epinephrine auto-injector products are known as “combination products” because they consist of a drug (epinephrine) and a device (the auto-injector).
Life-threatening allergies can include reactions to insect bites or stings, foods, medications, latex or other causes. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that affects the whole body and, in some cases, leads to death. People who have had an anaphylaxis episode are at risk of another one. Because of this risk, they must carry an emergency dose of epinephrine at all times.
This epinephrine injection (auto-injector) is intended for immediate administration to patients. When given intramuscularly or subcutaneously, it has a rapid onset and short duration of action. Epinephrine works by reducing swelling in the airway and increasing blood flow in the veins.
The most common side effects associated with epinephrine injection are anxiety, apprehensiveness, restlessness, tremor, weakness, dizziness, sweating, palpitations, pallor, nausea and vomiting, headache and/or respiratory difficulties. Rare cases of serious skin and soft tissue infections have been reported following use of the drug.
In patients with heart disease, use of epinephrine injection may cause chest pain (angina pectoris) or abnormal heart beats (ventricular arrhythmias). Following use of epinephrine injection, patients should seek immediate medical or hospital care. Epinephrine should not be injected into the vein, buttock, fingers, hands or feet. To minimize risk of injection-site injury, movement of the leg should be limited during injection.