An EpiPen can save your life. Do you know how to use it?

An EpiPen can be the difference between life and death for many individuals that have extreme allergies. The EpiPen, as it is commonly referred to, is a brand name for an auto-injectable device responsible for delivering a drug known as epinephrine. The drug is a life-saving medication that can be used when someone is experiencing a dangerous allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. This is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that causes the immune system to release a flood of chemicals that can cause you to go into shock. This can happen in a matter of seconds upon exposure, so immediate action is critical. Epinephrine is administered to stop the progression of an allergic response. It does this by constricting your blood vessels and increasing your blood pressure while decreasing swelling. This causes the muscles surrounding your airways to relax, letting your lungs open.

If you suspect you have had an allergic reaction to a food or insect sting, you should seek a certified allergist as soon as possible. Most deaths due to anaphylaxis come from a delay in the injection of epinephrine. When in doubt it is always better to administer the drug than to not. Using epinephrine when not medically necessary is not harmful. With that being said, proper use and administration are still very important to your health and safety, along with those you love. It is best to consult with a medical expert on the proper use of your device.

Here are the basic steps of administration:

1. Hold the pen with the orange tip pointed downward
2. Pull up and remove the blue safety cap (do not bend or twist)
3. Place the orange tip against the middle of the outer thigh
4. Swing and push the auto-injector firmly into the thigh until it “clicks”
5. Hold firmly in place for three seconds

It can be very easy to get the step confusing and accidentally inject oneself in the hand. It is best to remember the saying “blue to the sky, orange to the thigh”. It is also strongly encouraged that you do not inject more than two injections right after each other. An excess amount of epinephrine can cause dangerously high blood pressure, stroke, and possibly death. If you experience an irregular heartbeat or difficulty breathing after injecting yourself, seek medical attention immediately.

After administering epinephrine, seek medical assistance. The effects of the drug can wear off and the potential for a second reaction is very possible. It is important that you receive professional care to determine whether additional epinephrine, steroids, antihistamines, or other treatments are required.

The most common and deadly allergic reactions tend to come from peanuts, fish and shellfish, sesame seeds, tree nuts, soy, insect stings, and poisonous animal bites. Although it is best practice to avoid these things altogether, it is never a bad idea to carry around an EpiPen if you have an issue with allergies. Having one on hand and ready can be life-changing not only for you but also for someone around you as well.

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