EpiPen is an auto-injector device used to administer epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, in cases of anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction). More rarely it may be used as an emergency treatment for severe asthma attacks when other treatments are unavailable.

Epinephrine is the standard treatment of choice by physicians around the world for treating anaphylaxis, quickly slowing or reversing dangerous symptoms.

EpiPen Saves Lives

Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction to an allergen. Allergens can be quite varied, from food ingredients (such as peanuts) to insect venom (such as bee stings) to medications (such as sulfa); in some case anaphylaxis can even be induced by exercise. Likewise symptoms of anaphylaxis can also be varied, and are not always life-threatening.

Unfortunately the more serious the reaction the quicker symptoms begin to develop, in the worst cases just seconds or minutes after exposure to an allergen. Dangerous symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing due to swollen tongue, throat or airways
• Increased or erratic heartbeat, weak pulse, cardiac arrest
• Disorientation, confusion or unconsciousness caused by a drop in blood pressure
• Severe abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea, incontinence
• Any other serious, unexplained swelling in the body

Because exposure to allergens is often unexpected and the onset of anaphylaxis is so rapid there may not be time to seek medical attention. In these situations, EpiPen is literally a life saver.

Emergency Administration

EpiPen use is fairly straightforward. The cylindrical device has a pointed tip at one end and a safety release on the other end. The safety release must be removed before the device will function; simply pull the safety release out of the device. Once removed, the pen is ready to be used:

• Swing the device so it firmly hits the upper thigh. There should be an audible click which indicates the needle has extended.
• Hold the EpiPen firmly in place for 10 seconds.
• There may be still be liquid in the pen; this is normal and does not indicate a less-than-full dose was administered.
• Gently massage the injection site for 10 seconds after removing the pen.
• If symptoms worsen or do not improve in 5 to 15 minutes, a second dose may be administered.
• Seek medical attention immediately, even if symptoms improve.

Administration in the case of a severe asthma attack is identical, though this should only be done when milder treatments are unavailable or ineffective.

Being Prepared

Most people who suffer from severe allergic reactions are aware of the risks and keep EpiPen, or similar products, on-hand at all times. At a minimum two pens should be available, as one dose is sometimes not enough.

In many cases patients buy EpiPen to keep in multiple locations; on their person, in the home, at work or school, in the car, and so forth, further assuring fast access in an emergency.

Epinephrine does expire and will need to be replaced periodically; expiration dates will be clearly marked on the side of the device. Likewise the medication should be clear, not cloudy or discolored. In either case EpiPen should be replaced as soon as possible.

Buy EpiPen Before You Need It

At Kiwi Drug we do not require a prescription to buy EpiPen, but we do ask clients to fill out some additional information to ensure understanding of the proper use and potential risks of epinephrine. Answers will be reviewed by a pharmacist. There is no additional cost for this process and it will not delay your order.

Some areas require a prescription to purchase, possess or administer this medication; clients who buy EpiPen from Kiwi Drug are responsible for understanding and complying with local laws.