When to Use Your EpiPen® (epinephrine) Auto-Injector
Make sure you speak with your health care professional about how to identify the signs and symptoms of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). If you, your child or someone you're caring for shows signs or symptoms of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), inject the health care professional-prescribed EpiPen or EpiPen Jr. immediately, then promptly call 911 and seek immediate medical attention. Signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) may include:
- Difficulty in breathing
- Wheezing
- Sneezing
- Hoarseness
- Hives
- Itching
- Swelling of the lips, tongue
- Numbness or tingling of the lips or tongue
- Skin redness
- Fast heartbeat
- Weak pulse
- Feeling very anxious
- Confusion
- Stomach pain
- Losing control of urine or bowel movements (incontinence)
- Faintness or "passing out" (unconsciousness)
Don’t be afraid to use the EpiPen Auto-Injector during a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Using it at the start of such a life-threatening allergic reaction may prevent the reaction from becoming worse. Remember, the EpiPen Auto-Injector is not a substitute for emergency medical treatment.
There are no absolute contraindications to using EpiPen Auto-Injectors in a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). People with certain medical conditions have a higher chance of having serious side effects from EpiPen Auto-Injector. The EpiPen Auto-Injector should be used with caution if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid conditions or diabetes, or if you are pregnant or take medicines that can cause heart-related symptoms. These conditions should be discussed with your health care professional.