Adrenaline Auto-Injectors (EpiPens)

Please check your EpiPen

If you have been prescribed an adrenaline auto-injector (EpiPen) because you are at risk of anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction), please make sure you are prepared.

1. Check your EpiPens

Please check that:

  • Your adrenaline auto-injectors are still in date.
  • You have two adrenaline auto-injectors available at all times.
  • If your EpiPens are out of date, or you do not have two available, please contact the practice to arrange a replacement prescription.
  • You can set up for a free expiry alert reminder at https://cloud.email.viatrisconnect.com/EpiPen-Expiry-Alert-Registration

2. Make sure you know how to use your EpiPen

It is important to know how to use your adrenaline auto-injector before you need it in an emergency.

Please watch this video to refresh your knowledge of how to use an EpiPen:

Watch the EpiPen demonstration video

We recommend watching the video regularly so that you remain familiar with how to use your device.

3. Check that you have the correct EpiPen for your weight

The strength of adrenaline auto-injector prescribed depends on body weight:

  • EpiPen Junior 0.15 mg – for children weighing 7.5 kg to 30 kg
  • EpiPen 0.3 mg – for individuals weighing more than 30 kg

Please make sure that you (or your child) have been prescribed the correct EpiPen for your current weight.

If your child has gained weight or is now over 30 kg, please contact the practice to change their adrenaline auto-injector.

The correct use of your Adrenaline Auto-Injector (AAI)

Recognise the signs of anaphylaxis

A - Airways

Swelling in the throat, tongue or upper airways (Tightening of the throat, hoarse voice or difficulty swallowing).

B - Breathing

Sudden onset wheezing, breathing difficulty or noisy breathing.

C - Circulation

Dizziness, feeling faint, sudden sleepiness, tiredness, confusion, pale clammy skin or loss of consciousness.

Don't Delay - If you have any signs of anaphylaxis, use your AAI immediately. If in doubt, use it. Don’t delay. Then dial 999 straight away.

What to do in an emergency

  1. Use your AAI without delay.
  2. Immediately dial 999 and say“anaphylaxis” (“ana-fill-axis”).
  3. If you are not already lying down, then do so. See the positioning guidance below.
  4. Use your second AAI if you haven’t improved after 5 minutes.

Correct positioning

  • Lie down flat and raise your legs.
  • If pregnant, lie down on your left side.
  • Prop yourself up if you are struggling to breathe, but don’t change position suddenly. Lie down again as soon as you can.
  • Don’t stand up. Stay lying down even if you are feeling better.

Be prepared

  • There are 3 different types of AAI. Know how to use yours.
  • Follow the instructions.
  • Always carry 2 in-date AAIs with you.
  • Check the expiry dates regularly and replace AAIs before they expire.