When a second dose of epinephrine may be warranted

When a second dose of epinephrine may be warranted

Although most patients experiencing anaphylaxis respond promptly to epinephrine injections, up to 20% of patients may require a second dose of epinephrine either due to persistent symptoms or a biphasic reaction (See ‘the continuum of anaphylaxis’ section).3 For this reason it is important that patients at risk for anaphylaxis carry two doses of epinephrine.3,8 

It is important to communicate to your patients that if they, their child or someone they’re caring for shows signs or symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction, inject the prescribed EpiPen® (epinephrine) or EpiPen Jr.® (epinephrine) Auto-Injector immediately, then promptly call 911 and seek immediate medical attention.3,7  More than 2 sequential doses of epinephrine should only be administered under direct medical supervision.