Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can develop rapidly. Knowing how to recognize the symptoms and use an EpiPen correctly can save a life.
St. Louis Sinus Center provides allergy evaluations and treatment to help patients understand their allergies and develop an appropriate management plan.
Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that requires immediate treatment. Common triggers include foods, medications, insect stings or bites, and other allergens.
Symptoms may include:
Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening. If you suspect anaphylaxis, use your prescribed epinephrine auto-injector promptly and call 911. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen.
EpiPen is a prescription epinephrine auto-injector used for the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis. Follow these steps to administer it correctly.
Open the protective case and remove the auto-injector. Familiarize yourself with the device before an emergency occurs, and review the instructions supplied with your specific injector.
Make a fist around the middle of the auto-injector, keeping the orange end pointing downward toward the thigh.
Remember: Blue to the sky, orange to the thigh.
Keep your thumb, fingers, and hands away from the orange end, where the needle comes out.
With your other hand, pull the blue safety top straight up and away. Do not bend, twist, or flip it off. Removing the safety top prepares the device for use, so avoid touching the orange end.
Place the orange end against the middle of the outer thigh. Push the auto-injector firmly into the thigh until you hear a click. EpiPen can be administered through clothing if necessary.
Do not inject into the hands, feet, buttocks, or veins.
If administering the injection to a young child, hold the child’s leg firmly in place to help prevent accidental movement and injury.
Press the device firmly against the outer thigh and hold it in place for 3 full seconds. Then remove it straight out. The orange needle cover should extend to cover the needle after removal.
Seek emergency medical attention after every EpiPen injection, even if symptoms improve. Anaphylaxis can return, and further medical treatment or observation may be necessary.
Follow the emergency dispatcher’s instructions while waiting for help.
Always carry two prescribed epinephrine auto-injectors in case symptoms persist or return, or another dose is needed. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and the directions supplied with your device regarding additional doses.
Take the used auto-injector with you to the emergency department and handle it according to the manufacturer’s disposal instructions.
Important: These instructions apply specifically to EpiPen brand auto-injectors. Other epinephrine auto-injectors may operate differently. Review your device’s instructions and ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist to demonstrate proper use.
Use your prescribed EpiPen promptly when you recognize signs of anaphylaxis, following your personal emergency action plan. Do not delay treatment while waiting for symptoms to worsen. Call 911 immediately after use.
Yes. EpiPen can be administered through clothing if necessary. Place the orange end against the middle of the outer thigh and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Hold the EpiPen firmly against the outer thigh for 3 full seconds, then remove it straight out.
Store EpiPen at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C), and protect it from light. Do not refrigerate or freeze it, and avoid exposing it to extreme heat or cold.
Check the medication through the viewing window periodically. Do not use the device if the liquid is discolored (pinkish or brown) or contains particles. Check the expiration date regularly and replace the device before it expires.
Yes. Keep your prescribed auto-injectors with you and readily accessible while traveling. Carry two auto-injectors, protect them from extreme temperatures, and check their expiration dates before your trip.
Yes. EpiPen is available by prescription in the United States. If you have a history of severe allergic reactions or are at risk for anaphylaxis, talk with your healthcare provider about whether an epinephrine auto-injector is appropriate for you.
Replace your EpiPen before it expires whenever possible. If an expired device is your only available option during a life-threatening allergic reaction, seek emergency medical guidance immediately and do not delay emergency treatment while waiting for a replacement.
No. EpiPen is a single-use device and cannot be reused after an injection. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local requirements for safe disposal.
Epinephrine auto-injectors are available in different strengths, including EpiPen Jr for eligible children. The appropriate device and dose depend on the child’s circumstances and the prescribing healthcare professional’s guidance.
Parents, guardians, school staff, and other caregivers should learn how to recognize anaphylaxis and practice using a trainer device.
Seek immediate medical attention following an accidental injection, especially if the injection occurs in a finger, hand, foot, or another area outside the recommended injection site. Accidental injections can cause serious complications and require prompt assessment.
EpiPen is intended for human use. Do not administer it to an animal unless specifically directed by a veterinarian. Contact a veterinarian immediately if your pet experiences a suspected allergic emergency.
Understanding your allergies and knowing how to respond to a severe allergic reaction are important parts of managing your health.
St. Louis Sinus Center offers allergy evaluations and treatment to help patients identify potential triggers and discuss appropriate allergy management options.
If you have concerns about severe allergic reactions, ask our team about allergy care, emergency preparedness, and whether an epinephrine auto-injector may be appropriate for you.
Contact St. Louis Sinus Center to schedule an allergy consultation.
For complete instructions and important safety information, visit the official EpiPen Instructions for Use.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, the instructions supplied with your medication, or emergency medical care.
Individual results may vary.
The effectiveness of treatments can differ based on individual circumstances.