What does a epinephrine auto-injector do?

What does a epinephrine auto-injector do?

​​Medical providers can prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector for a child at risk of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Epinephrine is a life-saving drug that treats the symptoms of a severe allergic reaction by stopping the airway from swelling.

What is an epinephrine auto-injector and when is it used?

People use artificial epinephrine as a medication to treat severe allergic reactions. People who have allergies to specific foods, insect venom, or other substances often carry an epinephrine auto-injector to self-administer the drug in emergencies. Many people refer to this device by the brand name EpiPen.

What is Epinephrine Injection USP?

Epinephrine Injection, USP is a sterile, nonpyrogenic solution intended for subcutaneous or intramuscular injection. When diluted, it may also be administered intracardially or intravenously.

Where do you inject epinephrine?

Epinephrine is injected into the skin or muscle of your outer thigh. In an emergency, this injection can be given through your clothing. Epinephrine is sometimes given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this type of injection.

What are the two most common signs of anaphylaxis?

Symptoms

• Skin reactions, including hives and itching and flushed or pale skin.
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Constriction of your airways and a swollen tongue or throat, which can cause wheezing and trouble breathing.
• A weak and rapid pulse.
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
• Dizziness or fainting.

What happens if you give an EpiPen to someone who doesn’t need it?

An accidental injection to the hands or feet can impair blood flow to these areas and can potentially cause tissue death. This however, is the worst-case scenario. Symptoms of an accidental injection are not usually so severe and may include: temporary numbness or tingling.

Why call 911 when epinephrine is given?

Once epinephrine is administered, you should call 911 immediately and advise dispatchers that you have just used epinephrine for a suspected anaphylactic reaction. Make arrangements to be transported to an emergency room for additional treatment and for observation.

Where should you not inject epinephrine?

Do not inject epinephrine into the buttocks or any other part of your body such as fingers, hands, or feet or into a vein. Do not put your thumb, fingers, or hand over the needle area of the automatic injection device. If epinephrine is accidently injected into these areas, get emergency medical treatment immediately.