EpiPen® (epinephrine) and EpiPen Jr® (epinephrine) Auto-Injector

EpiPen® (epinephrine) and EpiPen Jr® (epinephrine) Auto-Injectors

The EpiPen and EpiPen Jr Auto-Injectors (0.3 and 0.15 mg epinephrine) are used for the injection of epinephrine. EpiPen Auto-Injector is used to treat signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, including pruritus, urticaria, angioedema, flushing, syncope, tachycardia, and dyspnea due to laryngeal spasm and/or a decrease in blood pressure.1 Anaphylaxis can be caused by triggers such as food, stinging and biting insects, medicines, latex, or even radiocontrast media and exercise.2-3

Features include:

  • A one-step, flip-top carry case designed for single-handed opening
  • A blue safety-release cap designed to prevent unintentional injection
  • An ergonomic design for a firm grip and easy handling
  • Illustrated instructions on the auto-injector, which allow accurate and rapid use of the product in an emergency
  • A brightly colored orange tip for quick identification of needle end
  • And built-in needle protection — the EpiPen Auto-Injector is the only epinephrine auto-injector that protects against needle exposure both before and after use

These features are highlighted in Figure 1.

EpiPen 2-Pak

EpiPen and EpiPen Jr Auto-Injectors are available in 2-Pak cartons. Up to 20% of patients require a second dose of epinephrine either due to persistent symptoms or a biphasic reaction (See ‘the continuum of anaphylaxis’ section).3,4 For this reason it is important that patients at risk for, or who have a history of anaphylaxis carry carry EpiPen 2-Pak3,4 which provides an additional dose if needed during an anaphylactic reaction. Additionally, each EpiPen 2-Pak includes a training device.1

Indications

EpiPen® (epinephrine) 0.3 mg and EpiPen Jr® (epinephrine) 0.15 mg Auto-Injectors are indicated in the emergency treatment of type 1 allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, to allergens, idiopathic and exercise-induced anaphylaxis, and in patients with a history or increased risk of anaphylactic reactions. Selection of the appropriate dosage strength is determined according to body weight.

Important Safety Information

EpiPen Auto-Injectors should only be injected into the anterolateral aspect of the thigh. DO NOT INJECT INTO BUTTOCK, OR INTRAVENOUSLY.

Epinephrine should be used with caution in patients with certain heart diseases, and in patients who are on drugs that may sensitize the heart to arrhythmias, because it may precipitate or aggravate angina pectoris and produce ventricular arrhythmias. Arrhythmias, including fatal ventricular fibrillation, have been reported in patients with underlying cardiac disease or taking cardiac glycosides or diuretics. Patients with certain medical conditions or who take certain medications for allergies, depression, thyroid disorders, diabetes, and hypertension, may be at greater risk for adverse reactions. Other adverse reactions include transient moderate anxiety, apprehensiveness, restlessness, tremor, weakness, dizziness, sweating, palpitations, pallor, nausea and vomiting, headache, and/or respiratory difficulties.

EpiPen and EpiPen Jr Auto-Injectors are intended for immediate self-administration as emergency supportive therapy only and are not intended as a substitute for immediate medical or hospital care.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

For additional information please contact us at 800-395-3376.