Summary
Adrenaline (epinephrine) is a natural hormone released in response to stress. It is a natural "antidote" to the chemicals released during severe allergic reactions triggered by drug allergy, food allergy or insect allergy. It is destroyed by enzymes in the stomach, and so needs to be injected. When injected, it rapidly reverses the effects of a severe allergic reaction by reducing throat swelling, opening the airways, and maintaining blood pressure.

IMPORTANT The information provided is of a general nature and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. If you think you may suffer from an allergic or other disease that requires attention, you should discuss it with your family doctor. The content of the information articles and all illustrations on this website remains the intellectual property of Dr Raymond Mullins and cannot be reproduced without written permission.

Remove the device from the plastic protective container.

Remove the grey cap from the fatter end of the device. (This "arms the unit" ready for use). Note- the BLACK end is the needle end so keep your fingers and thumb clear!

1. Hold the EpiPen in your fist with clenched fingers wrapped around it. (There is nothing to "push" at the white end).

2. Press the black tip gently against the skin of the mid thigh, then start to push harder until a loud "click" is heard. This means that the device has been activated.

3. 3.Hold in place for 10 seconds (count "1 elephant, 2 elephants, 10 elephants etc") while the adrenaline is injected under pressure.
   

Note-The EpiPen "pop" is often quite loud.

1. Remove the EpiPen from the thigh; be careful with the needle that will now be projecting from the EpiPen when you dispose of the device.

2. Massage in the adrenaline. There may be some slight bleeding at the injection site.

3. Apply firm pressure with a cloth, tissue, clean handkerchief or bandage.

4. Record the time that the EpiPen was given.

5. Call for help and seek urgent medical attention, just in case additional doses or treatment is required.

Other important links

1. There are a number of common mistakes when using EpiPen.

Click HERE to view an illustrated guide of what NOT to do!!

2. You can also register with Alphapharm Australia to be reminded about when your EpiPen is due to expire. Visit "EpiClub".

3. The Australian Society for Clinical Immunology and Allergy has a number of online anaphylaxis resources, including regular updates of its Action Plans which can be downloaded from HERE and filled out by your GP, paediatrician or allergy specialist.

Last reviewed 28 January 2010