EpiPens

Allergic reactions to foods and insect bites or stings can have fatal consequences for those who suffer from them. Because deaths due to allergic reactions can occur swiftly when the victim is struck, there has been a great deal of research done and the technology has been developed to counter this dilemma.

The EpiPen (TM) is a portable, controlled dose of epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, built into a writing pen sized container that is fixed with an enclosed spring activated needle for swift injection of the drug. It is designed for easy use so the victim can administer the medicine himself. The EpiPen comes in two dose sizes, one for children up to 33 pounds and for adults. The effects of the epinephrine will last only about 20 minutes so it is necessary to always keep enough doses with you to cover the time it may take to reach medical treatment or a hospital.

There are a number of carrying cases to choose from to keep your supply of life saving epinephrine with you. Some of them are built like waist packs. They are reinforced so as to provide impact protection. Other EpiPen holders are constructed like a money belt and can be worn concealed under the clothes.

Most EpiPen products are sold through your pharmacy and it is recommended you always keep up with the expiration dates of your medicine and trade out expired doses before they go bad. To avoid abuse of this powerful stimulant, there are few places you can purchase it over the counter. The way epinephrine works on the body to relieve the effects of anaphylactic shock is to quickly constrict the blood vessels and relax the muscles of the lungs so breathing is easier. It will stimulate the heart into greater activity and reverses possible swelling and hive breakouts.

The EpiPen is a one-time use, disposable drug delivery system and with this convenience comes the need to dispose of used pens safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital should be able to provide you with biohazard bags to put the used cartridge in and will often dispose of it for you. As stated, it is very easy to administer the EpiPen dose. There is a gray cap over the needle end, which should never be removed unless you are going to inject the drug. Never put your finger over the black tip as you might accidentally release the medication. It is a spring loaded needle so all it takes to inject the drug is a good push against the outer thigh and hold it down for about ten seconds. You should never try to inject the drug directly into an artery, as this will release the drug into the blood stream too quickly or into the buttocks as this fatty tissue may retain the drug and not release it quickly enough. While it is not recommended, the EpiPen can deliver the dose through clothing. Always call 911 or seek emergency treatment after an episode that required the use of epinephrine so that further treatments are available to pull you through.